Understanding Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Procedure
If you or your partner has been diagnosed with unexplained infertility, male fertility issues or hostile cervical mucus, one such fertility treatment to support couples trying to conceive is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI).
IUI involves inserting the prepared sperm sample from your partner or donor through the cervix (the neck of the womb) and into the uterus. This procedure is performed during ovulation to achieve the highest possibility of fertilisation, and thus improving the chances of pregnancy.
IUI Procedure: Step by Step
- The IUI fertility treatment starts by monitoring the woman’s menstrual cycle for two weeks to determine the day of ovulation.
- Once an egg has matured, it breaks free from the ovary and begins its journey through the fallopian tube, marking the start of ovulation. This ovulation process occurs either naturally or is induced by an artificial hormone simulation.
- Healthy sperm is later inserted directly into the uterus via a thin catheter, leaving fertilisation to happen as it would in a natural cycle. The discomfort experienced is akin to a pap smear.
What Does A Good IUI Candidate Look Like?
For successful IUI fertility treatment results, a female candidate should:
Be Able to Ovulate
The ideal female candidate has a regular menstrual cycle. If they suffer from ovulation issues, such as PCOS, fertility injections or oral medication will be given to stimulate the ovaries to prepare for the IUI procedure.
Have Unobstructed Fallopian Tubes
The fallopian tubes should be unobstructed to give way for fertilisation. Women with endometriosis or prior infections may carry scar tissue that can obstruct these tubes, hindering egg transport and, by extension, fertilisation.
Have A Healthy Uterus
A healthy uterus is needed to ensure that a fertilised egg can attach itself to the uterus lining and sustain the pregnancy. Infection, hereditary issues, previous trauma can damage the uterus and make becoming pregnant or carrying the pregnancy problematic. IUI has a lower success rate in such cases, and surgery or surrogacy may be recommended as alternative procedures.
For successful IUI fertility treatment results, a male candidate should:
Be Able To Produce Healthy Sperm
The ideal male candidate can produce healthy sperm in adequate numbers. Otherwise, donor sperm or IVF with ICSI may be recommended.
Who Is The IUI Procedure Suitable For?
IUI is a recommended procedure for people who have been unable to conceive through natural means. For couples under 35 years of age, IUI may be an option after attempting unprotected sex for up to one year. Couples over 35 may be considered IUI candidates if they have been attempting to get pregnant through unprotected intercourse for six months or more. Apart from helping those with certain infertility issues, IUI can also benefit couples experiencing difficulty conceiving due to lifestyle constraints, such as mutual work and travel schedules, or sexual dysfunction. It is important that the IUI candidate is in good health overall and does not suffer from any medical conditions that affect wellness. IUI is less intrusive when compared to other fertility treatments such as in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) and can be a great option for couples feeling challenged by their current situation. IUI is a popular fertility procedure amongst couples due to several reasons.
Advantages Of An IUI Procedure In Singapore
IUI can be a much less invasive and less expensive option than other common fertility treatments such as IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Not only is IUI often a less costly and physically demanding choice, but it also has certain benefits associated with it – the IUI procedure itself takes only 15-20 minutes, and does not require anaesthesia because it is relatively painless. Furthermore, IUI procedures not only enhance sperm quality by removing many potentially harmful materials from the sperm sample, but also decrease the formation of free oxygen radicals after preparation, thus further increasing its quality. Ultimately, IUI is a great option for those looking to reduce stress on their bodies and wallet while pursuing fertility treatments.
Boost Your Chances Of Fertility With The O&G Specialist Clinic
IUI treatment is an excellent option for women considering fertility assistance. At The O&G Specialist Clinic, we work with you to ensure your fertility journey remains a smooth one. We are a trusted and reputed clinic that provides IUI treatments at a reasonable IUI cost in Singapore. Our team of experts uses medical know-how to make sure that IUI treatments are conducted in a safe and effective manner. We understand that it takes courage and strength to explore IUI treatments, which is why we prioritise providing physical comfort, mental well-being, emotional security, and the best experience overall for our clients. We strive to exceed expectations and provide the highest level of quality IUI service so you can have peace of mind while getting yourself closer to your parenthood dreams. Head down to our clinic in Singapore or set a virtual consultation with us to discuss more about what the treatment entails, the costs and like. The path to parenthood is exciting and full of hope – and we wish to journey with you in this life chapter.