IUI Fertility Treatment
When deciding to make the decision to use an infertility clinic to help conceive, the options can seem endless and overwhelming. Where do you start? IVF Phoenix fertility specialist can help you make the right plan.
Artificial Insemination Procedure
(IUI) Artificial insemination is a procedure performed in the office by which prepared sperm is placed into the uterus using a small catheter inserted through the cervix. Sperm can be from your partner or a donor, depending on your situation and needs, but all sperm is prepared through a series of washes that remove substances that can lead to cramping or shock. Once the sperm is washed, it can remain viable for 24-48 hours.
Intrauterine insemination is often performed if you have been unsuccessful with timed intercourse, or, if it has been determined that your cervical mucus is inadequate, the sperm and mucus do not interact normally or your mucus is hostile to the sperm causing it to become nonviable. In the case of sperm-mucus incompatibility, IUI allows the sperm to bypass the cervical barrier enabling them to move into the fallopian tube and reach the egg.
There are several variations to the insemination procedure. Taking medications to stimulate the ovary to produce multiple follicles and release of more than one egg is one of the most common.
IUI vs IVF: What Is The Difference?
Although these treatments are often mentioned together, they have significant differences.
- IUI is one procedure where the prepared sperm is placed directly in the patient’s uterus when she is ovulating in order to aid fertilization. IVF, on the other hand, is a process which consists of stages of procurement of eggs.
- IUI with fertility medication carries a significantly higher risk of multiple pregnancies.
- The success rate is statistically lower with IUI in comparison to IVF
Intrauterine insemination may increase your potential to achieve pregnancy to 20%/cycle. If a couple does not achieve pregnancy after three to six cycles, they may wish to progress to a more aggressive procedure.
When To Go Straight For IVF.
- Are over the age of 38-40
- Are using donor eggs
- Have trouble ovulating
- Have severe endometriosis
- Have blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, or they have been removed.
- Need ICSI to conceive
- You or your partner as a genetic disorder
If you’re considering having a baby via fertility treatment, it’s always best to take the time to understand your options. Here at IVF Phoenix fertility clinic, we will help you make the best decision based on your budget, age, fertility, and preferences. Contact us today to get more information.