The full form of IUI is Intrauterine Insemination.
Understanding Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment method that involves placing sperm directly into a woman's uterus. The goal is to increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes and thus increase the chance of fertilization.
How IUI Works
During natural intercourse, only a few hundred sperm reach the egg. IUI bypasses the cervix, placing a concentrated amount of sperm closer to the egg.
- Sperm Preparation: The male partner provides a sperm sample which is then "washed" to concentrate the healthy, motile sperm.
- Procedure: The prepared sperm is inserted into the uterus using a thin catheter. The procedure is quick and usually painless.
- Timing: IUI is often timed to coincide with ovulation, which may be stimulated using fertility medications.
Benefits of IUI
- IUI improves the likelihood of pregnancy by putting sperm closer to the egg.
- It is less invasive than in-vitro fertilization (IVF).
- IUI is a helpful fertility treatment option for couples struggling with infertility.
- Can help individuals and couples with low sperm count, sperm motility issues, or unexplained infertility.
Example
An example of when IUI might be recommended is when a couple has been trying to conceive for some time without success. The male partner may have slightly below-average sperm counts, making it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg naturally. In such a case, IUI can help increase the number of sperm that are able to meet with the egg, thereby improving chances of pregnancy.
