Artificial Insemination

Intrauterine insemination, once called artificial insemination, is a process by which sperm is deposited in a woman’s uterus by artificial means. This, for many couples, is a less invasive and more affordable choice than In Vitro Fertilization. IUI is not, however, the only artificial insemination procedure performed. Individual with fertility problems may also choose to try intravaginal insemination (IVF), intracervical insemination (ICI), or intratubal insemination (ITI).

The Process -

In IUI, sperm must be properly prepared through a process called Sperm Washing. How far in advance sperm has been prepared can influence the chances of success in this procedure. Sperm washing is a procedure used to prepare sperm for use in IUI. It allows the sperm a better chance for survival and fertilization. Sperm washing separates sperm cells from a man’s semen, helping to remove dead or slow moving sperm cells as well as chemicals that may impair fertilization. Sperm must be washed prior to IUI because raw semen, if inserted directly into the uterus can cause cramping and sever pain and even lead to uterine collapse.

For most women, the IUI process is fairly painless, akin to a pap smear. A thin catheter is inserted through the cervix and washed sperm is injected into the uterus. Ideally it should be performed within six hours on either side of ovulation.

The success rates of IUI are reported to be fewer than six percent to as high as twenty-six percent per cycle.

Cost for the insemination process can be $120 to $400 each and with some clinics advising two inseminations per cycle.

More info on:

• Gender PGD Selection
• Embryo Transfer
• Fertility Information