Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
A painless, simple, in-office procedure

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine Insemination, or IUI, is a type of fertility treatment that involves placing sperm into the uterus. This increases the number of swimming sperm which, in turn, increases the opportunity for a sperm to find the egg.

An IUI is a painless and quick procedure that's often performed in-office by one of our highly skilled nurses. The procedure takes 1-2 minutes to perform and, after a short rest in the office, you’re free to return to normal activities.

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Learn More About Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI Process

This quick and painless procedure takes 1-2 minutes to perform. the IUI itself is usually less uncomfortable than getting a Pap Smear.

This quick and painless procedure takes 1-2 minutes to perform. the IUI itself is usually less uncomfortable than getting a Pap Smear.

  1. We will ask you to come to the appointment with a full bladder to optimize the angle between your uterus and cervix
  2. Before placement, the semen sample must be washed and prepared
  3. A small, flexible catheter will be passed into the uterine cavity
  4. Afterwards, you’ll have a short rest in the office and then you’re free to return to your normal activities.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Why Sperm is Washed Prior to Placement

Washing the semen sample has many benefits:

  • Improves sperm motility: washing activates the sperm and removes substances that might lower sperm quality
  • Helps identify the most actively swimming sperm
  • Removes Prostaglandins: Prostaglandins are proteins found in semen that can cause violent uterine contractions if placed inside your uterus

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) FAQ

Does sperm count influence IUI?
What’s the success rate for IUI?
How long after an IUI will I find out if it was successful?
What’s the difference between IUI and IVF?