I.U.I.
I.U.I.
What is I.U.I.?
I.U.I. stands for Intrauterine Insemination, a simple and non-invasive fertility treatment. This procedure involves placing specially prepared sperm directly into a woman’s uterus around the time of ovulation, increasing the chances of fertilization.
How Does I.U.I. Work?
Ovulation Monitoring: The woman’s ovulation cycle is closely monitored, usually through ultrasound and hormone testing, to determine the best time for the procedure.
Sperm Collection: A sperm sample is collected from the male partner or a donor. The sperm is then “washed” and prepared in a lab to concentrate the healthiest and most active sperm.
Insemination Process: Using a thin, flexible catheter, the prepared sperm is inserted directly into the uterus. This is a quick and painless procedure that takes just a few minutes.
Who Can Benefit from I.U.I.?
I.U.I. is often recommended for:
- Mild male infertility: When sperm count or motility (movement) is slightly below normal.
- Unexplained infertility: When no clear cause of infertility is identified.
- Cervical issues: When the cervix’s mucus is too thick or hostile to sperm.
- Single women or same-sex couples: Using donor sperm.
- Ovulation disorders: When ovulation is irregular or absent.
Advantages of I.U.I.
- Less invasive: I.U.I. is less invasive compared to other fertility treatments like IVF.
- Cost-effective: It’s generally more affordable than other assisted reproductive technologies.
- Quick recovery: No anesthesia or surgery is needed, and normal activities can be resumed immediately after the procedure.