The flow of IUI Cycle
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a process of insemination of the washed and processed sperm into the uterus at the time of ovulation. IUI can only be applied on those who have normal uterus and patent Fallopian tubes.
Indications of IUI include:
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Ovulatory dysfunction
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Inadequate cervical mucus
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Mild to moderate endometriosis
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Mild male factors (oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, teratozoospermia)
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Immunological factors (antisperm antibodies)
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Unexplained infertility
In IUI, you will undergo initial ovarian stimulation. Ovarian stimulation is achieved by daily oral clomiphene intake which will start on Day 3 for a total of five days. FSH injection every other day will start on Day5. When your ovarian follicles reach 17 mm in diameter, hCG injection will be given to mature the eggs and trigger ovulation. IUI is usually performed 24 to 36 hours later.
Timeline for IUI Cycle
On the day of IUI, the male partner has to produce his semen by masturbation similar to that in semen analysis. He is advised to comply with the instructions as listed below:
3 to 5 days of abstinence prior to semen collection
Inform the nurse if he was or is sick or on any medication for the past 2 months
Collection by masturbation is preferred
Wash hands with soap and clean with water before semen collection
Do not use lubricant, soap or perfume during semen collection
Avoid spillage when semen is collected
IUI procedure
The doctor will first insert a speculum into your vagina, as in a smear test, to keep your vaginal walls apart. A small catheter (a soft, flexible tube) will then be threaded into your womb via your cervix. The best-quality sperm will be selected and inserted through the catheter.
The whole process only takes a few minutes and is usually painless. Some women may experience a temporary, menstrual-like cramping and advice to rest for a short time before going home.
Urine or serum pregnancy test will be done two weeks after the procedure to confirm pregnancy
An RTAC-Accredited Fertility Centre