Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

With IUI, a concentrated, specially washed sperm sample (from a partner or donor) is inserted into the uterus. This quick and painless procedure, also referred to as artificial insemination, ensures that the sperm is closer to the egg than it normally would be, making conception easier.

Overview of the IUI process

1. Sperm separation and washing. After the male partner produces a semen sample,

we separate the best, most active sperm from dead or slow moving sperm, bacteria, and chemicals, and place them in a small amount of fluid.

2. Insertion of sperm. Around the optimal time surrounding ovulation, we will place

this high concentration of sperm directly into the uterus through the cervix, using a small catheter. By bypassing the cervix and increasing sperm concentration around the egg, IUI increases the chances of conceiving. It can help overcome cases of male factor infertility – such as when the man has a low sperm count, a high percentage of abnormally shaped sperm, or sperm with low motility. In addition, it can help if the mucus produced by the cervix isn't adequate to carry sperm into the uterine cavity or contains damaging antibodies. If several attempts at IUI are unsuccessful, it may be time to move on to a more aggressive treatment like in vitro fertilization.

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