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What is Intra-uterine insemination and how does it work?
Artificial insemination or intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a treatment for infertility. It involves directly inserting sperm into a woman’s womb.
In IUI, a man provides a sample of sperm, which is then ‘washed’ and filtered in the laboratory using special techniques. The technique separates fast moving sperm from more sluggish or non-moving sperm. This ensures that only the highest quality sperm is used for the procedure.
During the procedure, the concentrated and fast moving sperm are then placed into the woman’s womb close to the time of ovulation when the egg is released from the ovary in the middle of the monthly cycle.
Could IUI benefit us?
IUI may be an option if:
- You are unable to have sex because of disability, injury, or if your partner experiences premature ejaculation.
- If donor sperm is used.
It is essential that your fallopian tubes are known to be open and healthy before the IUI process begins. A tubal patency test is usually carried out as part of your assessment by the fertility clinic.
IUI isn’t recommended if both your tubes have adhesions or scarring that might stop an egg travelling from the ovary to your uterus. But if you have at least one working tube and ovary on the same side, IUI may be an option for you.
Please note that you may not be eligible for NHS funded IUI treatment as most CCG’s don’t fund IUI routinely. We will assess your eligibility for IUI if this is appropriate for you.