The journey to parenthood can be very challenging for couples struggling with infertility. A promising method that brings hope is intrauterine insemination (IUI). In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the IUI process, its applications, requirements, benefits, success rates, risks, and associated costs.
What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a medical procedure where sperm are directly introduced into the uterus to facilitate fertilization. "Intrauterine" means "within the uterus," while "insemination" means "semen transfer." This procedure can be performed either with the partner's sperm (homologous insemination) or donor sperm (heterologous insemination).
Why is IUI Performed? Common Reasons for Intrauterine Insemination
IUI is often considered in the following situations:
- When there is a mild impairment in the sperm quality of the male partner.
- When the female partner has irregular ovulation.
- In cases of unexplained infertility despite regular sexual intercourse.
- For single women or lesbian couples wanting to start a family.
Requirements and Criteria for Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Certain conditions must be met for a successful IUI:
- The woman must have either a natural or hormonally induced ovulation.
- The fallopian tubes must be patent.
- There should be no hereditary diseases in the family.
- The male partner must produce a sufficient number of fertile sperm.
Step-by-Step: The IUI Process with Hormone Stimulation
To increase the chances of pregnancy, hormonal stimulation of the ovaries is often performed before IUI. Between the 10th and 12th cycle day, the maturation of the follicle is checked via ultrasound. An injection of the pregnancy hormone hCG triggers ovulation, while the male partner provides a sperm sample.
The actual IUI is performed either on the same or the next day, sometimes on two consecutive days, to maximize the chance of conception. The doctor introduces the prepared sperm directly into the uterus using a catheter, facilitating the natural fertilization process. The treatment takes about 15 minutes and is almost painless.
Advantages of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) at a Glance
Compared to natural conception, IUI offers several advantages. The prepared and most motile sperm are placed directly near the ovulation site. Additionally, hormonal stimulation significantly increases the chances of success, doubling or even tripling the likelihood of pregnancy.
Success Rates and Chances of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
The probability of pregnancy per IUI attempt is about 10–15% on average, depending on the woman's age, the medications used, and sperm quality. Typically, 3 to 6 attempts are made. If these are unsuccessful, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is often recommended. However, many couples find their path to parenthood through IUI.
Costs of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and Insurance Coverage
The costs for intrauterine insemination vary depending on the fertility clinic and range between 300 and 1000 euros, including medication. Under certain conditions, such as marriage, age criteria, and the use of the partner's sperm, statutory health insurance covers 50% of the costs.
Possible Risks and Side Effects of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
For those preferring a less interventional approach, IUI can also be performed without hormonal or medication interventions, allowing for a more natural process. However, this requires time flexibility and possibly more effort in determining ovulation.
Alternative Approaches to Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
For those preferring a less interventional approach, IUI can also be performed without hormonal or medication interventions, allowing for a more natural process. However, this requires time flexibility and possibly more effort in determining ovulation.
Alternatives to Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Home Insemination
Home insemination is gaining popularity as an accessible alternative to IUI. This method offers couples and individuals a private and cost-effective way to attempt pregnancy by conducting the entire process at home. Through our platform RattleStork, you can easily and safely connect with potential sperm donors. Home insemination uses special kits that can be used at home, avoiding expensive clinic visits. It is advisable, however, to be well-informed and seek medical advice if necessary to maximize the success of the method and consider all important aspects, including legal and health-related matters.
