Intro to IUI

Many young women find that egg donation is an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience that can change and help an aspiring family come one step closer to achieving their dreams while receiving additional compensation for their contribution.

Leading up to the IUI Procedure

The recipient will have a pelvic exam to ensure their fallopian tubes are open and functioning and an ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve (their number of eggs remaining) and to time the insemination around her ovulation period.

Blood tests may also help determine suitability and the best time to perform the procedure.

Sperm Requirements

To be a suitable candidate for IUI, there are requirements around the quality of the sperm to be used, which can be evaluated using a Sperm Count or Semen Analysis. Typically 1 million motile sperm was considered the minimum amount of sperm needed for an adequate IUI. Males with much lower sperm count would be unlikely to benefit from IUI and would be a better fit for IVF.

The IUI Procedure

A semen sample is collected, which will be washed and prepared for insertion. Washing removes compounds that can cause cramping or other reactions. A speculum is inserted to visualize the cervix, and a catheter will then be passed through the cervix into the uterus. The sperm is then injected through the catheter and into the uterus.

Risks and Side Effects

The procedure is generally well tolerated with minimal discomfort, though there may be some cramping from the insertion of the catheter. In some cases, medication may be used to stimulate ovulation in advance of the procedure, which can increase the chances of success but also carry added costs and certain risks.

Ideal candidates for IUI

While not appropriate for all, IUI can be an effective and affordable treatment option for certain types of patients. Specifically, single females or lesbian couples, heterosexual couples with some types of cervical or male-factor fertility issues, or couples seeking a less-intensive approach to conception prior to attempting other forms of assisted reproductive technology like IVF.

Pregnancy Rates with IUI

The success rate of IUI varies widely among different studies. Generally speaking, IUI pregnancy rate depends on age of the patient (age <40, 10-15% per cycle, age >40, 5-10%), sperm quality (Kruger morphology>4% had 15-20% pregnancy rate, Kruger morphology <4% had 5-10% pregnancy rate)...

Timing with IUI

IUI must be timed with ovulation and ovulation can take place spontaneously after LH surge or can be induced with trigger shot. If one receives the trigger shot, IUI is typically performed within 12-24 hours. If a spontaneous LH surge is detected, the IUI will typically be performed the next day.

Am I a good candidate for IUI?

To determine your fit for IUI, we’ll need to better understand your unique patient case. To learn more, schedule a Complimentary Consultation (CC) or Fertility Evaluation (FE) with the providers at Life IVF Center!
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is IUI (intrauterine insemination)?
IUI places a specially prepared sperm sample directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation, shortening the distance sperm need to travel and improving the odds of fertilization compared to timed intercourse.
How is the IUI procedure performed?
A semen sample is collected and washed to remove substances that can cause cramping. A speculum is used to visualize the cervix, and a thin catheter carries the prepared sperm through the cervix and into the uterus. The process is quick and generally well tolerated.
What are the sperm requirements for IUI?
Sperm quality is evaluated with a semen analysis before proceeding. Roughly 1 million motile sperm is generally considered the minimum for an adequate IUI. Significantly lower counts usually respond better to IVF than IUI.
Who is a good candidate for IUI?
IUI can be a good fit for single patients or same sex couples using donor sperm, couples with mild male factor or cervical factor infertility, or those who prefer a less intensive approach before considering IVF. A consultation helps determine whether IUI or another treatment path makes more sense for your situation.
What are the success rates for IUI?
Success varies by age and sperm quality. Generally, patients under 40 see roughly 10 to 15 percent pregnancy rates per cycle, while patients over 40 see roughly 5 to 10 percent. Sperm morphology also matters, with higher quality samples associated with higher per cycle success.
How is IUI timed with ovulation?
IUI must be timed closely to ovulation. If a trigger shot is used, the procedure is typically performed 12 to 24 hours later. If ovulation is detected through a natural LH surge, IUI is typically performed the following day.
What are the risks of IUI?
IUI is a low risk, minimally invasive procedure. Some patients experience mild cramping from the catheter. When medication is used to stimulate ovulation, there is a small added risk of multiples and other medication related side effects, which your care team will review with you in advance.

Don’t just take our word for it.

See what others are saying

K.W.

K.W.

Orange County, CA

“We can’t thank Life IVF enough”

After 5 years of marriage and trying to begin a family, 3 unsuccessful IUIs with a different doctor, 3 retrievals, and 2 transfers — we finally have our rainbow baby girls. Dr. Yelian and his staff help make our family complete. We can’t thank Life IVF enough.

S.P.

S.P.

Los Angeles, CA

“We finally have our big bundle of joy!”

After 3 years of miscarriages and surgeries we finally turned to IVF. With DOR and Adenomyosis and no viable Day 5 embryos after 3 cycles, we never gave up! Luckily after transferring a fresh day 3 embryo on cycle 4 we have our precious baby! He is worth every moment of despair and grief we went through. He started walking and is incredibly smart and strong and loving!

J.C.

J.C.

Bay Area, CA

“Dr. Yelian is AMAZING”

Dr Yelian is AMAZING, a real find – he has a tough patient population and still never gives up, even when the patient feels like it. He weathers the storms, has patience and persistence, and a great bedside manner. His flexibility and experience with his protocols gave us 2 great kids!

S.V.

S.V.

Orange County, CA

“We had a wonderful experience”

We had a wonderful experience at Life IVF. The kindness and professionalism of the staff made the difficulties associated with IVF much easier. We ended up having a beautiful child.

K.H.

K.H.

Phoenix, AZ

“I recommend Life IVF any opportunity I get”

We were so thankful we had a friend introduce us to Life IVF. The entire experience was top notch. From price, availability to talk to the staff, the process, education and ultimately outcome. Even accounting for the fact that we traveled from AZ to CA to receive treatment from Life IVF. I recommend Life IVF any opportunity I get. It’s thanks to Dr. Yelian and his staff that we have a perfect baby boy.