Intrauterine Insemination - IUI Treatment

IUI Treatment and Precautions

Pregnancy occurs when sperm fertilizes an egg, typically through natural conception during intercourse. However, another method known as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) can facilitate this process. In IUI treatment, sperm is directly placed into the woman’s uterus during ovulation, increasing the likelihood of fertilization and pregnancy.

When is it the right time to consider IUI?

IUI is done around the time of ovulation. If you ovulate naturally, blood or urine tests are used to track your ovulation — usually 12 to 16 days before your next period.

Mild endometriosis
PCOS/PCOD
Ovulation Problems
Male infertility
STDs/STIs
Genetic Factors
Sexual Dysfunction
Age Related Problems
Cervical issues

If you need help with ovulation:

You’ll be given medication to stimulate egg growth.
A vaginal ultrasound will monitor your egg development.
A hormone injection will be given to release the egg when it’s ready.

What are the stages of IUI treatment?

IUI treatment begins within the first five days of the menstrual cycle with a baseline transvaginal scan. This is followed by ovulation induction using hormonal tablets and injections. A follicular study is performed to track follicle growth, while the sperm sample is washed and processed to isolate motile sperm. During ovulation, typically between the 12th to 18th day of the cycle, the prepared sperm is directly injected into the uterus, enhancing the chances of fertilization.

IUI has a 15% to 20% success rate, depending on proper case selection.

Precautions to Follow During IUI Treatment:

Follow Proper medication
Routine health check-ups
Balanced nutritional plan
Refraining from smoking, alcohol, and addictive substances

When to Consider Ovulation Induction with IUI?

Ovulation induction combined with IUI can improve pregnancy chances, especially for women with unexplained infertility. It may also be considered in cases where natural ovulation is irregular or absent.

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A rare but serious condition where the ovaries over-respond to fertility medications, causing them to swell and leak fluid into the body.
Multiple Pregnancies: Ovarian stimulation can increase the risk of twins or triplets.
Medication Use: Medicines are given to stimulate egg release, followed by a procedure where sperm is directly placed into the uterus to assist fertilization.
IUI with Ovulation Induction has a 20% to 25% success rate, depending on proper case selection.

Benefits of IUI Treatment

Panacea Fertility Center offers a ray of hope for couples experiencing infertility.
Some of the key benefits of IUI include:

Less Invasive Procedure: IUI is a simpler and less invasive treatment compared to other fertility methods like IVF.
More Natural Process: It closely mimics natural conception by placing sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation
Cost-Effective: IUI is more affordable than other advanced fertility treatments, making it accessible to more couples.
Quick and Convenient: The IUI procedure is quick, usually completed in a few minutes, and requires minimal recovery time.
Helps with Mild Male Infertility: IUI can be effective in cases with slightly low sperm count or motility, improving the chances of fertilization.
Uses Donor Sperm Option: For single women or couples with male infertility, IUI allows the use of donor sperm.

Possible Side Effects and Considerations for IUI:

Some medications used during IUI may cause side effects like bloating, nausea, and water retention. However, if the treatment is closely monitored and done carefully, the risk of complications is very low. When choosing IUI, patients should keep a few things in mind. If donor sperm is used, it's important to understand that the baby’s genetic traits will come from the donor, not the legal father. So, while selecting a semen sample, it’s necessary to match the donor’s characteristics with those of the parents. IUI is only possible when there is confirmed ovulation, at least one healthy fallopian tube, and good-quality, motile sperm.

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