What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is an assisted reproductive technology. During the ovulation period, processed sperms could be placed directly into the uterus. To increase the chance of pregnancy, a woman may undergo ovarian stimulation with fertility drugs to increase the number of eggs available, but no more than three mature eggs to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies. Ultrasound scan will be performed to monitor the follicular development and avoid excessive ovarian responses.

Preparation before treatment

Professional assessment and diagnosis

Before the treatment, patients meet with physicians to have a better understanding of their health condition. In order to identify the cause of infertility, investigations may be required, for example blood hormone tests, pelvic ultrasound scan, hysterosalpingogram and semen analysis, etc.

Signing of consent forms

The attending doctor and nursing staff will explain the treatment process and risks in detail, ensure that the couple understand all the terms and conditions. They will then be asked to sign a consent form before start of treatment.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Procedure

1. Ovarian stimulation (2-3 oocytes) - Optional
2. Tracking of ovulation
3. On the day of IUI, semen specimen submitted by husband will be washed and processed in the laboratory
4. The processed sperms will be placed into the uterus using a catheter by the attending doctor
   

   After an IUI, physicians may provide some patients with medications to assist implantation (e.g. progesterone pessaries or injections) and advise urine test for pregnancy 14 days later.