IUI – Irene IVF Centre

GUIDANCE

When May IUI Be Considered?

Depending on the fertility assessment, IUI may be discussed in situations such as:

Because fertilisation after IUI normally occurs in a fallopian tube, tubal patency is usually an important part of deciding whether IUI makes sense.

IUI is generally less useful when there is severe tubal disease, significant sperm abnormalities or another fertility factor that makes fertilisation inside the body unlikely.

selected cases of unexplained infertility

ovulation-related fertility concerns when treatment and monitoring are appropriate

some mild male fertility factors

situations where placing prepared sperm closer to the fallopian tubes may be helpful

PROCESS

How Does an IUI Cycle Work?

An IUI cycle is usually planned around ovulation timing. Before starting, the doctor reviews whether the tubes are likely to be open, whether semen findings are suitable for IUI and whether natural-cycle monitoring or medication-assisted ovulation is appropriate.

The aim is to place a prepared sperm sample in the uterus close to ovulation, while keeping monitoring proportionate to the patient's age, diagnosis and risk of multiple follicle development.

Cycle Assessment & Ovulation Planning

The doctor reviews the menstrual cycle and decides whether natural ovulation monitoring or medication-assisted ovulation is appropriate.

Monitoring

Ultrasound or other monitoring may be advised to understand follicle development and help time insemination.

Semen Preparation

A semen sample is processed in the laboratory to concentrate motile sperm and remove much of the surrounding seminal fluid.

Insemination

The prepared sample is placed into the uterus through a thin catheter close to the time of ovulation. The procedure itself is usually brief, although individual experiences vary.

GUIDANCE

IUI or IVF — What Is the Difference?

With IUI, eggs remain inside the body and fertilisation is expected to occur in a fallopian tube. With IVF, eggs are collected and fertilisation occurs in the laboratory.

The choice between continuing to try naturally, using IUI or considering IVF depends on the cause of infertility, age, ovarian reserve, tubal findings, semen parameters and previous treatment history.

Using fertility medicines with IUI can increase the chance of more than one follicle developing, so monitoring is important because multiple pregnancy is a recognised risk of stimulated cycles.

IUI Treatment