What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Treatment and How Is It Performed?

“Intrauterine insemination” (IUI) is one of the assisted reproductive techniques used in the treatment of infertility. This method is carried out by directly injecting spermatozoa, which have undergone special processes in the laboratory, into woman’s uterine cavity. In this way, the chance of sperm reaching the egg and fertilisation is increased.

In which cases is Intrauterine insemination IUI treatment applied?

Intrauterine insemination IUI treatment can be preferred in the following cases:

• Male Infertility: In cases of low sperm count or insufficient sperm motility, IUI method can be applied.
• Female Infertility: In cases such as cervical secretion negatively affecting sperm or endometriosis, IUI treatment can be considered.
• Unexplained Infertility: When there is no obvious cause of infertility in couples, IUI treatment may be an option.
• Immunological Factors: If the woman’s immune system perceives sperms as foreign and destroys them, IUI method can be preferred.

How is IUI treatment carried out?

Intrauterine insemination IUI treatment consists of certain stages:

• Stimulation of the ovaries: The ovaries are stimulated to produce more than one egg with the help of medication. These drugs are usually started within the first 5 days of menstruation and used for 5 days.
• Follicle Monitoring (Folliculometry): The development of eggs is monitored by ultrasonography. When the follicles reach a certain size, an injection is given to trigger ovulation.
• Sperm Preparation: The sperm sample is washed in a laboratory environment and the most mobile, high quality sperms are selected.
• IUI Process: The prepared sperm are injected into uterine cavity with the help of a thin catheter. The procedure is usually painless and does not require anaesthesia.

Success Rates of Intrauterine insemination IUI Treatment

The success rates of IUI treatment vary depending on the age of the couple, the cause of infertility and the number of treatments. In general, the success rate in one cycle is between 10-20%. Treatment can be repeated several times to increase the chance of success.

Advantages and Disadvantages of IUI Treatment

Advantages:

• Less Invasive: It is a simpler and less invasive method than in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment.
• Cost Effective: It is more economical than other assisted reproductive techniques.

Disadvantages:

• Low Success Rate: The success rate is low especially in older women.
• Risk of Multiple Pregnancy: The risk of twin or triplet pregnancy may increase due to the development of more than one egg.

Things to Consider Before and After Intrauterine insemination IUI Treatment

Before Treatment:

• Healthy Lifestyle: Smoking and alcohol use should be avoided and a balanced diet should be taken care of.
• Stress Management: Stress can negatively affect reproductive health. Relaxation techniques and support may be useful.

After Treatment:

• Rest: It is sufficient to rest for a short time after the procedure; long-term rest is usually not necessary.
• Return to Daily Life: Light-paced daily activities can be continued; however, heavy exercises are avoided.
• Symptom Monitoring: A doctor should be consulted when pregnancy symptoms or unexpected situations are observed.

IVF or IUI? Which Method is More Suitable?

The two most preferred methods in infertility treatment are IUI and in vitro fertilisation (IVF). However, which method is more appropriate depends on factors such as the couple’s health status, the cause of infertility and age.

For whom is IUI more suitable?

IUI is a simpler and natural process and is especially recommended for couples with mild male factor infertility, unexplained infertility or cervical problems. The woman’s tubes must be open, ovulation must occur regularly and the male sperm must have a certain level of motility.

In which cases should in vitro fertilisation (IVF) be preferred?

If the woman’s tubes are blocked, the ovarian reserve is low or the male sperms have serious morphological and motility disorders, IVF treatment offers a higher success rate. In addition, in vitro fertilisation may be the next step for couples who do not get results from IUI treatment.

Which is more successful?

While the success rate with the IUI method is around 10-20%, this rate can be up to 50% in the young age group in IVF treatment. However, the IVF process is more costly, lengthy and invasive. IUI is more economical and requires less medical intervention.

Which Treatment to Choose?

The most appropriate method should be determined together with the doctor, taking into account the individual health status, age and causes of infertility of the couple. If pregnancy is possible naturally and there is a mild infertility problem, IUI may be the first option. However, in cases of severe infertility, IVF offers a more effective solution.

Frequently Asked Questions about IUI Treatment

Is IUI treatment painful?

No, the IUI procedure is usually painless and does not require anesthesia.

How long should I rest after IUI?

It is sufficient to rest for about 10-15 minutes after the procedure and then you can resume your daily activities.

When can I start sexual intercourse after IUI?

Depending on your doctor’s recommendations, sexual intercourse every other day is usually allowed after the procedure.

How many times can IUI treatment be attempted?

Generally, 3-4 IUI attempts can be made. If there is no success, other treatment methods are evaluated.

What is the difference between IUI and IVF?

IUI is a method that requires less intervention and sperm is injected directly into the uterus. In in vitro fertilization (IVF), the egg and sperm are fertilized in the laboratory and the embryo is transferred into the uterus. IVF has a higher success rate than IUI, but is a more costly and complex process.

What are the chances of getting pregnant with IUI?

The success rate of IUI treatment depends on the couple’s age, the cause of infertility and general health. There is usually a 10-20% chance of success in one cycle. After 3-6 attempts, the chance of pregnancy may gradually increase.

When should a pregnancy test be done after IUI?

You should wait at least 12-14 days after the IUI procedure and then have a Beta HCG test in the blood. Tests performed too early may give false results.

Who is not recommended for IUI?

• Women with very low ovarian reserve
• Those with blocked tubes (IVF is recommended if there is bilateral blockage)
• Those with severe male infertility
• Those with poor egg quality due to advanced age

How many minutes does IUI take?

The IUI procedure usually takes 5-10 minutes. The patient can return to his/her daily life after a short rest.

What are the centers that perform IUI treatment in Ankara?

There are many private hospitals and IVF centers in Ankara that perform IUI treatment. Specialist staff, success rates and treatment process should be taken into consideration when choosing a center.

Conclusion

IUI therapy is an important reproductive support method for couples with a low chance of pregnancy naturally. It can be an effective option for women with mild male factor infertility, unexplained infertility and regular ovulation. However, the success rate is lower compared to IVF treatment, and the appropriate treatment method should be determined by considering the health status and age factor of the couples.

If you would like to learn more about IUI treatment or to determine the most appropriate method for you, you can contact Prof. Dr. Şadıman Kıykaç Altınbaş, an obstetrician and gynecologist in Ankara. Being guided by an experienced specialist will help you take the right steps during pregnancy. You can contact us to make an appointment and get detailed information.