Intrauterine Insemination

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Intrauterine insemination, commonly called artificial insemination or IUI, is a treatment in which washed sperm are injected directly into the uterine cavity near the time of ovulation. IUI bypasses the cervix and allows more sperm to get to the site of fertilization in the outer fallopian tubes. Dr. McNichol sometimes recommends IUI to treat mild male factor infertility especially when there is a problem with the sperm count or low motility. IUI can also be used to enhance your success following ovulation induction.

Prior to performing an IUI, the sperm is washed to remove the seminal plasma and to concentrate the specimen. Sperm washing may also improve the ability of the sperm to fertilize the egg. An IUI is typically performed in a few minutes using a small plastic catheter to inject the sperm into the uterus. Most likely you will feel little if any discomfort during the procedure.