What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is yet another variation of the popular procedure known as artificial insemination. Intrauterine insemination is a procedure in which semen from either the woman’s partner, or a donor, is placed directly into the uterus of the female. This procedure is extremely useful for women who have hostile cervical mucus, as well certain other infertility issues.

For a woman with hostile cervical mucus this procedure is the answer she has been searching for. With intrauterine insemination, the semen is delivered directly into the uterus via a small plastic tube, bypassing the cervix and mucus. This way the sperm actually have a chance to fertilize the egg.

Intrauterine insemination is a little more expensive than intracervical insemination, yet a lot cheaper, and simpler, than in vitro fertilization. While intrauterine insemination may be a little more expensive than intracervical or intravaginal insemination, it is far more successful than the two.

The procedure is basically the same as far as the process. It is done inside the doctor’s office and usually only takes a few minutes. In many cases if the woman has a normal, productive ovulation cycle, it is up to her discretion whether or not to take fertility drugs. Although the fertility specialist may encourage this, as it does increase the chances of conception greatly. Keep in mind it also increases the chances of multiple births.

Depending on what infertility issue you are facing intrauterine insemination is a wonderful, and far less costly, alternative to in vitro fertilization. The first step in the process is to set yourself up an appointment with a fertility specialist. A fertility specialist will give you all your options, and explain everything to you in greater detail. He or she should be willing to explore every avenue of treatment with you and then, when you find the right procedure, address each of your concerns.