IUI Treatment

Intra Uterine Insemination Treatment in Chennai

What is IUI? Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a commonly used fertility treatment that helps couples overcome infertility. In this procedure, specially prepared sperm are processed and then gently placed into the uterus at the time of ovulation, when the ovary releases one or more eggs. This method increases the chances of fertilization by allowing the sperm to travel directly to the fallopian tubes, where it can meet and fertilize the egg, leading to pregnancy.

Why Intra Uterine Insemination?

IUI is commonly recommended for couples experiencing one or more of the following fertility concerns:

Unexplained infertility

When routine fertility tests show no clear cause, doctors often suggest IUI as an initial treatment, usually combined with medications that stimulate ovulation.

Endometriosis-related infertility

For women with mild endometriosis, fertility drugs may be used to improve egg quality, and IUI is frequently chosen as the first line of treatment.

Use of donor sperm

When conception involves donor sperm, IUI is the preferred method. Frozen donor samples from licensed sperm banks are thawed and prepared before the procedure.

Cervical factor infertility

Thick or hostile cervical mucus can prevent sperm from reaching the egg. IUI places sperm directly into the uterus, bypassing the cervix and improving the chance of fertilization.

Ovulation-related infertility

Women with irregular ovulation, absent ovulation, or a low egg reserve may benefit from IUI, often in combination with ovulation-inducing medications.

Semen allergy

In rare situations, sensitivity to proteins in semen may interfere with conception. Since sperm is washed to remove these proteins before IUI, the procedure can help achieve pregnancy.

How can I prepare for an IUI?

Before undergoing an IUI procedure, careful planning and coordination are required. The process usually involves the following steps:

Semen sample preparation:

The male partner provides a semen sample, or a donor sperm sample is selected. In the case of donor sperm, frozen samples are thawed before use. Since certain components in semen can trigger reactions in a woman’s body and reduce the chances of fertilization, the sample is specially processed. This washing technique isolates healthy, active sperm from weaker sperm and other unwanted substances. Using a small volume of concentrated, high-quality sperm improves the likelihood of conception.

Ovulation monitoring:

Accurate timing is essential for IUI success, so doctors closely track ovulation. This may involve using a home ovulation test that detects the surge of luteinizing hormone (LH). Alternatively, the doctor may monitor follicle development through transvaginal ultrasound imaging. In some cases, medications or an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are given to trigger the release of one or more eggs at the optimal time.

Identifying the best time for IUI:

IUI is usually performed within one to two days after ovulation is detected. The fertility specialist plans the procedure carefully and explains the schedule and expectations to ensure the best possible outcome.

What happens during an IUI?

The IUI procedure generally lasts around 15 to 20 minutes and is performed at a fertility clinic. The actual insemination step takes only one to two minutes and does not require anesthesia or pain-relief medication. Procedure steps include:
  • You will be positioned on an examination table with your legs supported in stirrups.
  • The doctor gently places a speculum into the vagina to view the cervix.
  • A small vial containing prepared, healthy sperm is connected to a long, thin, flexible tube known as a catheter.
  • The catheter is carefully guided through the vagina and cervical canal into the uterus.
  • The sperm sample is slowly released into the uterus through the catheter.
  • Once completed, the catheter is removed, followed by the removal of the speculum.

To Conclude

It is recommended to wait around two weeks before taking a pregnancy test. Your doctor may ask you to come back approximately 14 days after using a home pregnancy test for a blood test, which is more accurate and sensitive in detecting pregnancy hormones following fertilization.

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