What is IUI?

Intra-uterine insemination, or IUI, is a minimally invasive procedure used most often by couples having trouble conceiving naturally. Sperm is placed into the uterus in order to increase the chances of successful fertilization of the egg and pregnancy. This process is ideal for:

• Women between 18 and 40 years of age
• Women who have had reduced ovarian function due to cancer or cancer treatment
• Women who are using donor sperm to conceive
• Men who are using sperm frozen prior to cancer treatment to conceive
• Men who have lost fertility due to cancer or cancer treatment and will be using donor sperm to conceive

IUI can be performed in coordination with a woman's natural ovulation cycle or in combination with ovarian stimulation using hormones to produce more than one mature egg per cycle. These hormones are similar to the ones used in IVF, but because the eggs aren't being extracted, the doctor closely monitors the number of eggs that are maturing.

The sperm sample used for IUI will be processed and evaluated for the overall health and motility of the sperm. If the sperm is not adequate for IUI, it may still be used for IVF or ICSI. Use the links to the right to find out more about these options.

Once the egg(s) are ready to ovulate, sperm from the woman's partner or from a donor is injected through the vagina and into the fallopian tubes, as close as possible to where the eggs will be to increase the chance of fertilization.

IUI is an established procedure used worldwide. It carries very few risks to the patient, although its success rate is not as high as other assisted reproductive techniques. Your child will need to consult with a physician when he or she is ready to have children to determine whether IUI is an appropriate option.