In the modern world, the issue of fertility is constantly gaining relevance. As more and more couples find themselves infertile, modern medicine devised several ways how the same process can be improved.
Here, a procedure called intrauterine insemination, also known for its shortened IUI represents a treatment for fertility that includes placing a sample of sperm directly into a woman’s uterus with the purpose of facilitating the fertilization process.
Basically, the main objective of the IUI is to raise the number of sperm cells that are able to reach deep into the Fallopian tubes. This way, the chance of fertilization is also raised.
How does IUI work?
The basic idea behind intrauterine insemination is to allow the sperm to get a head start on its path through the woman’s body. In spite of that head start, the sperm still reaches the egg on its own power and then fertilizes it. The IUI procedure is less expensive and less invasive than the IVF option (in vitro fertilization).
Practically, it involves stimulation of ovulation in the woman which is produced using special medications. After that, it is keenly followed and checked for the purpose of determining the exact moment when the eggs are ready for insemination.
Finally, the procedure of IUI is condensed to coincide with a window of 24 to 36 hours after the surge in the LH hormone. The procedure uses a semen sample that has been cleaned in a lab environment and prepared for the process. The IUI navigates the same sample using a catheter and leads it right into the uterus itself.
The entire process of insemination takes only minutes and does not include any significant discomfort. According to theory, in this time frame, the chance for insemination is the highest.
When is Intrauterine Insemination Employed?
Usually, the occurrence of a low sperm count in the male partner is the main reason for using IUI. The occurrence of impaired sperm mobility also can be a reason to employ it as well. But, while these are the main reasons, there are also other occurrences that can call for it.
These include unexplained infertility, a cervical condition that is hostile to sperm and also some form of ejaculation dysfunction. Patients who are recommended for this procedure include women who have some issues with their Fallopian tubes, like a disease. Women who have a history of pelvic infections or the condition called endometriosis.
IUI poses little to no risks, aside from a small chance of infection after the procedure. The success rates of the procedure, however, are dependent on several factors, including the age of the woman, the sperm count of the man, reasons for infertility and many other relevant facts. But, if the procedure is repeated on a monthly basis, the chance of conception can rise to 20%. While this might seem relatively low, the affordable nature of intrauterine insemination makes it a procedure that could be repeated until it succeeds.
With IUI, the process of fertility treatment can begin for those couples who desire to have a child but lack the ability to conceive it. Out of all other alternatives, its price tag is relatively affordable and should not hold back anyone from their dream of having a child. Because of this, intrauterine insemination represents the ideal option for those who are looking for low-risk and low-cost solution to their infertility issue.
Author Bio: Millie Behera is Founder & Medical Director at Bloom Reproductive Institute. You can follow them on Facebook for more info on infertility treatments.
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