One of the most time-tested forms of fertility treatment, artificial insemination involves the introduction of sperm into the female reproductive system through means other than intercourse.
Today, the most common form of artificial insemination is intrauterine insemination (IUI), offered at our Winter Park, Florida practice, which involves placing the sperm directly into the uterine cavity.
Indications for Artificial Insemination
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is performed using the male partner's sperm to overcome such problems as mild to moderate male factor infertility or hostile cervical mucus. IUI may be recommended in cases of unexplained infertility.
Donor sperm may be used for intrauterine insemination (IUI) in cases where the male partner cannot produce viable sperm or carries a potentially serious genetic condition. Screened, cryopreserved sperm from a donor sperm bank is utilized.
How IUI Works
The first step in the intrauterine insemination process is to prepare the sperm. Fresh sperm must be washed and sorted in our laboratory. This involves the removal of abnormal sperm and other debris in order to produce a concentrated sample of healthy, motile sperm. Because donor sperm must be processed and frozen for a period of time before use, it only needs to be thawed in preparation for IUI.
Once the sperm sample is ready, a thin, soft catheter is threaded through the cervix and into the uterine cavity. The sperm is then placed into the uterus and the catheter is withdrawn. Undergoing intrauterine insemination does not involve anesthesia and is usually painless or minimally uncomfortable (less than a Pap smear).
Contact Our Practice
To learn more about intrauterine artificial insemination, or IUI, please contact our Orlando, Florida practice.
