What Is the Significance of IUI: How Do You Prepare for It?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is an infertility treatment method. IUI increases the chances of conception by introducing specially prepared sperm straight into the uterus, the organ in which a baby develops. This surgery is a popular choice for numerous individuals because it is less intrusive and more affordable than other fertility treatments. If there are problems with the number or quality of sperm, or if endometriosis, ovulatory disorders, or cervical concerns are the cause of the infertility diagnosis, couples may think about IUI. It is also an option for same-sex couples who want to get pregnant. 

But what sets IUI apart? Let us examine the significance of IUI as a fertility treatment option and discover why it can be the best option for you.

When is IUI Treatment Done?

For couples experiencing unexplained infertility or ovulation issues, IUI may be an effective first step. The following are the factors that suggest the significance of IUI treatment:

• Male Infertility

Male infertility happens if males have insufficient sperm quantity, inadequate motility (movement), or morphologically abnormal sperm. These problems can be resolved with IUI. IUI is an effective way to isolate and implant high-quality sperm.

• Thick Cervical Mucus

The region that lies beneath the uterus is known as the cervix. Ovulation mucus allows sperm to pass from the vagina towards the fallopian tubes readily. Thick mucus may interfere with sperm motility, preventing it from reaching the egg. This problem can be resolved by the IUI infertility treatment procedure, which bypasses the cervical area and inserts the sperm directly into the uterus.

• Endometriosis

When the uterine endometrial lining extends outside of the uterine boundaries, endometriosis occurs. IUI can be performed as the initial treatment technique for endometriosis in women, and it can be used in conjunction with reproductive medicines.

• Irregular Ovulation

IUI may be helpful for women with ovulatory anomalies, such as irregular ovulation or non-ovulation. Initially, ovulation is induced by medicine for hormonal and reproductive issues. During ovulation, the sperm are subsequently placed in the woman's uterus.

• Unexplained Infertility

The significance of IUI is numerous; for instance, when the cause of infertility is unknown, IUI is frequently considered the first course of treatment. It is used in conjunction with ovulation induction techniques for optimal outcomes.

• Using Donor Sperm

IUI is an alternative method where a couple can use either fresh or frozen sperm to conceive if they are thinking about using donor sperm. Before being used, the frozen sperm are thawed. Donor sperm can also be used by single mothers, which demonstrates the significance of IUI.

• Semen Allergy

In some cases, a semen protein allergy may result in infertility. This sensitive allergic reaction may result in swelling, redness, and a burning feeling when the semen comes into contact with the woman's skin. IUI is used to isolate the sperm from the semen and transfer them into the woman's uterus to avoid such allergic reactions.

How to Prepare for IUI Treatment 

Before the actual surgery, intrauterine insemination involves the following important steps:

Watching For Ovulation

Timing is crucial. Thus, you need to look for signs that the body may be ovulating. You can use an at-home urine ovulation prediction kit to do this. It identifies when the ovary releases an egg due to a surge or release of luteinizing hormone (LH) produced by your body. You can also have a transvaginal ultrasound, a technique that creates images of your ovaries and egg development. To make you ovulate one or more eggs at the appropriate time, you might also receive a shot of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) or other medications.

Timing The Procedure Right

The majority of IUIs are performed one or two days after ovulation-related test results. Your doctor will probably have a plan that describes when your treatment will take place and what to expect.

Preparing The Semen Sample

The doctor receives a sample of semen from your partner. Another option is to prepare and thaw a vial of frozen donor sperm. Low-quality sperm are separated from highly active, healthy sperm by washing the sample. Washing also removes substances that may induce reactions in the uterus, such as severe cramping.

What to Expect During IUI Treatment?

Intrauterine insemination appointments are frequently conducted at a clinic or doctor's office. After the semen sample is ready, the IUI process itself only takes a few minutes. No medications or analgesics are required. The procedure is performed by your doctor or a professionally qualified nurse.

During the Procedure

You place your legs in stirrups while you are lying on an examination table. A speculum, an instrument with a plastic or metal hinge, is used to spread open the vaginal walls. During the process, the doctor or nurse will do the following steps:

• Connect a long, thin, flexible tube known as a catheter to the end of a vial containing a sample of healthy sperm.
• Inserts the catheter through the cervix, into the uterus, and the vagina.
• Forces the sperm sample into the uterus through the tube.
• Removes the speculum after the catheter.

After the Procedure

After the sperm are inserted into your uterus, you lie down for a short period of time on your back. After the operation, you can dress and resume your regular daily routine. A light spotting may occur for a day or two after the treatment.

Results

Do not take an at-home pregnancy test until two weeks have passed. An early test might lead to the following results:

• False-negative: When you are actually pregnant but the test shows no signs of it. If pregnancy hormone levels are still not at measurable levels, you may receive a false-negative result.
• False-positive: When you are not actually pregnant, the test finds a pregnancy indicator. If you have used fertility medications like HCG and the medication is still in your system, you may receive a false-positive.

About two weeks after the results of your home pregnancy test, you might have a follow-up appointment. You might receive a blood test at the visit to accurately identify pregnancy hormones after fertilization of an egg.

Benefits of IUI vs. other fertility treatments

Compared to other fertility treatments, IUI may offer a number of significant advantages.

• Less Invasive: The IUI procedure is less invasive and more straightforward. The procedure is simpler because it does not need egg retrieval, which calls for either sedation or anesthesia.
• Cost-Effective: IUI is a possible initial step for many individuals or couples dealing with infertility concerns because it is considerably less expensive than other procedures. 
• Compatible With Donor Sperm: IUI makes it possible for donor sperm to be used, increasing the chances for pregnancy for a variety of families, including LGBTQ+ couples and single individuals.

What is the Cost of IUI in India?

IUI is an affordable method of fertility treatment. The needs and complexity of the infertile couple's situation determine the typical cost and significance of IUI. When tests and medicine are not included, the average cost of an IUI cycle is between Rs. 3,000 and Rs. 5,000. Often, a single fertility treatment cycle is not enough to result in conception. It may take up to three cycles for a successful pregnancy for many Indian couples. To learn about how much does 3 rounds of IUI cost? Get an estimate from a qualified fertility specialist. 

The number of cycles required to achieve success determines the total cost of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. In several Indian cities, the cost of an IUI procedure per cycle is as follows:

Choose the Best Fertility Clinic for IUI Treatment!

Many individuals and couples who want to expand their families find IUI to be a wonderful option. It provides a more natural path to conception, is less intrusive, and is affordable. The significance of IUI has gained worldwide acceptance as a reliable fertility treatment due to its numerous benefits, which include helping with male infertility and providing a quicker recovery.

For aspiring parents, Apollo Fertility Centre offers personalized attention and innovative fertility treatments. Its high success rates are ensured by its skilled professionals, modern technology, and compassionate approach. Whether you have complex fertility issues or need support, visit Apollo Fertility, a top Fertility Centre in India, today!