Artificial Insemination

Definition: Intrauterine insemination (IUI), also known as artificial insemination, is a fertility treatment where sperm is directly inserted into the uterus.

Procedure:

Thin catheter threaded through the cervix to inject washed sperm into the uterus.

Can be performed using partner's or donor sperm.

Who Should Consider IUI:

Men:

• Inability to ejaculate in the vagina due to conditions like spinal cord injury, diabetes, or retrograde ejaculation.
• Low sperm count or poor sperm quality.

Women:

• Mild endometriosis, ovulatory disorders, or cervical mucus hostility.
• Normal ovulation, open fallopian tubes, and a normal uterine cavity.

Couples:

Unexplained infertility.

Male Requirements:

• Normal sperm count and shape.
• Sperm tests should be conducted.

Female Requirements:

• Normal ovulation, fallopian tubes, and uterine cavity.
• Severely damaged or blocked fallopian tubes may not benefit from IUI.

Sperm Collection:

• Ejaculation into sterile cup or collection condoms.
• Sperm washing and preparation before IUI.

Timing:

• Ideally within 6 hours of ovulation.
• Timing based on hCG injection or natural LH surge.

Drug Treatment:

Stimulates the maturation of two or three eggs.

Monitored for follicle growth and hormone levels.

Ovulation Induction:

hCG injection induces ovulation.

Sperm sample collected, washed, and concentrated for insemination.

Support and Monitoring:

Tests for potential pregnancy and early ultrasounds are conducted.

Benefits, Success Rate, and Support:

Success Rate:

Falls between 5-15% per cycle depending on factors like age and sperm count.

Generally, three cycles are attempted before considering advanced methods.

Cost-Effectiveness:

Simple and inexpensive compared to other fertility treatments.

India offers affordable rates for treatment.

Support:

Free opinions and consultations from expert doctors in super-specialty hospitals can be arranged.