Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a commonly used procedure used procedure that involves processing or “washing” of a semen sample to help concentrate the live, motile sperm and place it into the uterine cavity. This bypasses the cervical mucous, and gets the sperm closer to the fallopian tubes, where fertilization may take place. The indications for this procedure include, but may not be limited to, fertility issues involving “male-factor” (low motility, low sperm count, or abnormal sperm shape), and “unexplained infertility” (fertility issues that can’t be specifically diagnosed). IUI may be used in combination with oral +/or injectable ovulation induction agents.
Women who do not have a male partner may choose to have intrauterine inseminations using anonymous donor sperms. This is typically referred to as therapeutic donor insemination (TDI).
Ovulation Predictor Kits and ultrasounds are utilized to target each insemination to the appropriate cycle day to optimize chances of fertilization.