Starting a family can look different for everyone. At First Fertility, we understand that fertility challenges can be emotional, stressful, and overwhelming, while also feeling hopeful. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a commonly recommended first-step fertility procedure that can help to improve the chances of conception in a variety of situations.
Here’s when you might consider IUI and how it can help, as indicated by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).*
Mild Male-Factor Infertility
IUI can be particularly helpful for couples experiencing mild sperm-related issues. This includes low sperm count, reduced motility, or difficulty with ejaculation, such as retrograde ejaculation. By placing a specially prepared, concentrated sample of healthy sperm directly into the uterus, IUI increases the chances that sperm will meet the egg at the optimal time.
Ovulation Disorders
For those who have irregular or absent ovulation, IUI is often paired with fertility medications that encourage egg maturation and release. By timing insemination to coincide with ovulation, IUI helps ensure that sperm and egg have the best opportunity to meet, increasing the likelihood of conception.
Unexplained Infertility
Sometimes, all standard fertility tests show normal results, and no clear cause for infertility is identified. In these cases—often referred to as unexplained infertility—IUI can offer a gentle, effective way to give conception a boost. Combining IUI with ovulation medications can significantly improve pregnancy rates compared to trying without treatment.
Cervical Abnormalities
Certain structural issues or scarring in the cervix can make it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus naturally. This may result from past surgeries, procedures like LEEP or cone biopsy, or congenital variations. IUI bypasses the cervix, placing specially prepared sperm directly into the uterus and improving the chances that sperm will reach the egg.
Use of Donor Sperm
IUI is commonly used when donor sperm is required, whether due to absence of sperm, very low sperm quality, or genetic considerations. It’s also a primary option for LGBTQ+ individuals, single parents by choice, or anyone building a family using donor sperm. By delivering specially prepared sperm directly into the uterus, IUI maximizes the likelihood of fertilization in these scenarios.
Following Fertility Preservation
For people who have preserved sperm for future use—before undergoing medical treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or vasectomy— IUI can make use of thawed samples to achieve pregnancy. This approach helps individuals or couples move forward with family-building on their own timeline.
How IUI Works
IUI is a minimally invasive, in-office procedure that usually takes about 15 minutes. A fertility specialist gently inserts a thin, flexible catheter into the uterus and deposits a prepared sperm sample.
The sperm has been “washed” and specially prepared in the lab to concentrate the healthiest, most motile cells and remove seminal fluid that could cause discomfort. The procedure is timed to ovulation to maximize chances of conception. Most people experience minimal discomfort, though mild cramping or spotting may occur.
When IUI Might Not Be the Best Option
While IUI is effective in many situations, it may not be suitable for everyone. Alternatives are often recommended in cases of:
- Advanced age or diminished egg quality – IVF (in vitro fertilization) may offer higher success rates.
- Blocked or severely damaged fallopian tubes – Fertilization cannot occur naturally.
- Severe sperm abnormalities – IVF with ICSI may be needed.
- Multiple IUI cycles – Switching to IVF can improve outcomes.
Your reproductive specialist will carefully evaluate your medical history, test results, and goals to determine the most appropriate next step.
FAQs
Ready to Learn More About IUI?
If you’re wondering whether IUI could help you take the next step toward parenthood, First Fertility is here to guide you. Our compassionate reproductive specialists and embryologists use advanced lab technologies and personalized care plans to support every individual’s or couple’s family-building journey.
Contact your nearest First Fertility center today to schedule a consultation and explore how IUI might help you move closer to your goals of becoming a parent.
[Find a Location]*Source: ASRM
