Intrauterine Insemination

Following intercourse, only a small proportion of the sperm ascend the female genital tract. The goal of intrauterine insemination (IUI) is to increase the quantity and quality of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes, thereby facilitating fertilization. Also known as artificial insemination, intrauterine insemination (IUI) can be performed in our office using your male partner’s sperm or, when indicated, donor sperm.

Before the IUI procedure, the sperm are washed and placed into a small volume of sterile medium. The process of sperm washing is performed to remove substances in the ejaculate that are not meant to reach the uterine cavity and concentrate the specimen into a small volume that will not leak out the cervix. The prepared sample is then injected directly into the uterus via a soft, thin catheter. This portion of the procedure is comparable in sensation to a Pap smear. The woman is able to resume normal activity immediately after intrauterine insemination.

For intrauterine insemination to be effective, the woman must have normal ovulation, open fallopian tubes, and a normal uterine cavity. Ovulation induction with fertility drugs may be indicated for women with ovulatory disorders. The sperm of the male partner, or donor, is analyzed beforehand to determine count, motility (movement) and morphology (shape and size).