Prior to insemination, the sperm is prepared in our lab to increase concentration and activity. Sperm preparation takes an average of about a hour and a half, but the procedure itself takes only minutes. Couples are welcome to leave while the specimen is being prepared and return closer to the procedure time. IUI treatment is relatively painless, although some women may experience mild cramping.
During the woman’s ovulation period, the fertility doctor will take the prepared sperm cells and transfer them directly to the uterus through a hollow catheter. After it is transferred to the uterus, the events of fertilization proceed in a natural way, with the sperm still needing to find and fertilize the egg(s) that have been produced.
In treatment cycles involving IUI, the ovaries have often been stimulated with medications so that more than one egg is released at ovulation. This allows for multiple chances of successful fertilization.
Intrauterine insemination is most often used when the sperm count or activity is lower than normal, or when the cause of conception difficulties is undetermined. IUI treatment is commonly used as a first course of treatment, but if multiple attempts are unsuccessful, a couple may meet with their doctor to discuss moving to IVF.
Since it is a fairly simple procedure, there are very few risks associated with intrauterine insemination. Two potential risks to be aware of are the possibility of infection and the potential for minor vaginal bleeding as a result of the procedure.
Neither of these should have any impact on the success of a potential pregnancy, but it is always important to be aware of the potential risks associated with any new procedure!
Fertility Center offers IUI services for patients from Nashville, Atlanta, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and beyond. Our two offices are both in Chattanooga and Knoxville. Fill out the form below to contact us for more information on IUI treatment today!