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Intrauterine Insemination Services

Our centers augment this minimally invasive procedure with state-of-the-art andrology labs, meticulous timing, and gentle care.

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Intrauterine insemination⁠—explained

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a straightforward procedure where washed and concentrated sperm is placed in the uterus near the time of ovulation. It can be a straightforward and cost-effective family-building option for singles and couples alike.

The specific IUI treatment plan may vary from patient to patient. Below is a general overview of the steps:

Step 1

Before IUI, our centers will often conduct fertility testing to ensure we have the full picture of your health. We will conduct blood tests to understand your hormones, a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to observe fallopian tubes, and a pelvic ultrasound to examine the ovaries and uterus.

Step 2

The intrauterine insemination procedure will take approximately 5-10 minutes. As part of the procedure, sperm is placed into the uterine cavity through a speculum and tube.


IUI can be an effective solution for couples trying to conceive for six to 12 months. It’s also a straightforward method for lesbian and gender-diverse couples or patients with ovaries who want to build a family.

Step 3

Sperm is obtained (either from the patient’s partner, a known sperm donor, or a sperm bank), then washed and concentrated in the center’s andrology lab.


Our centers adhere to the highest standards for embryology, egg donor programs, and IVF cycles. You are in good hands with Ivy Fertility.

Step 4

Sperm is obtained (either from the patient’s partner, a known sperm donor, or a sperm bank), then "washed" meaning the best-quality sperm will be isolated for fertilization.

The procedure takes about fifteen minutes total and does not require sedation or anesthesia. A tiny tube containing the prepared sperm is inserted into the vaginal canal, through the cervix, and into the uterus. After the sperm is in place, the catheter is removed. You might experience some slight discomfort or cramping while the sperm is being placed, but the procedure is typically not painful.

Afterward you may experience spotting for a couple days.

FOLLOW UP

You’ll take a pregnancy test two weeks after your IUI procedure. If you are pregnant, we’ll schedule a follow-up appointment. We know it can be emotionally challenging if the process isn’t successful the first time; however, it’s not uncommon to repeat IUI three or four times before conceiving. If you are not pregnant after 3-4 IUIs, we may schedule a visit to discuss other options. We are here to support you every step of the way.

"You go in as patients, but out as family."

—Kamisha and Delmy, patients of Nevada Fertility Center

Intrauterine insemination⁠—answered

There is no such thing as a bad question at Ivy Fertility. Here are the most common questions about IUI:

“After our initial consultation and testing, a common discussion with the patient is how to proceed. We review all options because they each have their pros and cons. An IUI (intrauterine insemination) is placing prepped sperm into the uterine cavity near ovulation – it's low-tech and works with menstrual cycles. IVF (in vitro fertilization) is the process in which embryos are created outside the body (after eggs are retrieved) in our embryology lab, and then the embryo is implanted into the uterus. In general, IVF is a higher chance of success and allows for genetic screening of embryos and fertilization preservation, but many patients are successful with IUI. I review and help patients make the right decision for them.”


- Diana Zhou, MD, FACOG of Pacific NW Fertility

“We generally see a 5 to 20 percent success rate per IUI cycle, depending on various factors including age and egg quality, sperm factors, and whether or not fertility drugs are utilized. Medications like Clomiphene citrate, human menopausal gonadotropins (Menopur), or purified human FSH (Gonal-F, Follistim, or Bravelle) cause ‘superovulation,’ which increases the number of ovulated eggs per cycle. When there are more ovulated eggs, there’s an increased chance for fertilization and an increased risk of multiple births.”


- L. Michael Kettel, MD, of San Diego Fertility

“IUI is minimally invasive, and pain medication isn’t often needed. There may be slight cramping or pinching (similar to what you feel in a pap smear), but that sensation would be brief.”


- Denise Cassidenti, MD of Reproductive Partners Medical Group

“Your center is here to help, and we will be happy to answer any financial questions you have. The fee for IUI depends on various factors, including the center, the patient, and the overall treatment plan. That being said, IUI is typically a cost-effective option for people wanting to build a family, and insurance companies will sometimes provide coverage for the treatment.”

- Amy Kaing, MD of Fertility Centers of Orange County

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“We are forever grateful for Dr. Lin and his amazing team and highly recommend him to anyone struggling.”

—Ashley, patient of Fertility Centers of Orange County