Intrauterine insemination (IUI) at the Center for Reproductive Medicine
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), which involves placing the sperm directly into the uterine cavity. This is often done with the male partner's sperm to overcome problems like mild to moderate male factor infertility, hostile cervical mucus or unexplained infertility. In cases where the male partner cannot produce viable sperm or carries a potentially serious genetic condition, donor sperm may be used instead.
The IUI process comprises two steps:
- First, the sperm is collected and prepared. Fresh sperm is washed and sorted in our on-site laboratory; during this process, any abnormal sperm or other debris is removed, resulting in a concentrated sample of healthy, motile sperm. Because donor sperm is already processed before it is frozen, 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 female patient’s uterine cavity. The sperm is then placed into the uterus and the catheter is withdrawn. This procedure does not require anesthesia and is usually no more uncomfortable than a standard Pap smear.
What are the success rates of IUI?
At The Center for Reproductive Medicine, we understand that one of the first questions many patients ask about IUI is: Will it work for me? The answer depends on several personal factors, including age, diagnosis, sperm quality, and whether fertility medications are used.
On average, IUI has a per-cycle success rate of about 10-20% for individuals under 35. Success rates gradually decline with age, typically falling to 10-15% for patients between 35 and 40, and around 5-10% for those over 40. While these numbers may seem modest, they’re similar to the monthly chances of natural conception in couples without fertility issues.
Our team uses your unique medical history and fertility goals to guide your care. IUI can be a helpful first step for many individuals and couples, and we’ll always be honest about whether it offers a meaningful chance of success in your situation. Every treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to give you the best possible outcome.
Frequently asked questions
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IUI is short for intrauterine insemination, one of the most well-established forms of fertility treatment. With IUI, fresh sperm is washed and sorted to remove any abnormal sperm. (Donor sperm is pre-processed, so it only needs thawing out before the IUI procedure.) This healthy sperm is then introduced directly into the uterus via a thin catheter, bypassing the cervix entirely.
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IUI can be helpful for couples where hostile cervical mucus or poor sperm motility has made it difficult to conceive. If the male partner isn't producing viable sperm or has a genetic condition that he might pass on to the fetus, our Center for Reproductive Medicine team can use comprehensively screened, cryopreserved (frozen) sperm from a donor sperm bank instead.
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IUI is an outpatient procedure that doesn't require anesthesia. It is typically painless and no more uncomfortable than a Pap smear.
Schedule an Appointment for IUI in Orlando, FL
For over 40 years, the Center for Reproductive Medicine has helped thousands of people build their families through personalized fertility treatments, including IUI. To see if IUI is right for your family-building journey, schedule a consultation at one of our fertility clinics in Celebration or Winter Park, Florida.