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Understanding Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): What Is It?
IUI is a fertility treatment where healthy sperm are placed directly into a woman’s uterus during ovulation to increase the chances of pregnancy.It’s less invasive and more affordable than treatments like in vitro fertilisation (IVF), making it a popular first step for many couples.
IUI places the sperm closer to the egg, helping to bypass barriers like thick cervical mucus or low sperm motility. This gives the sperm a better shot at fertilising the egg in the fallopian tubes.
The Step-by-Step IUI Process
The IUI process involves several steps:- Initial consultation and tests: Your journey starts with a visit to a fertility specialist. Both you and your partner will undergo tests to check your fertility health. For women, this includes hormone tests (like AMH, FSH, LH, TSH), pelvic ultrasounds, and a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to make sure at least one fallopian tube is open. For men, a semen analysis checks sperm count, shape, and movement.
- Ovulation monitoring: Timing is critical in IUI. Your doctor will track your ovulation using blood tests to measure hormone levels (like luteinising hormone), transvaginal ultrasounds to monitor follicle growth, or home ovulation kits. Some women are advised to take oral medications or injections to stimulate egg production.
- Sperm preparation: On the day of the procedure, your partner or a donor provides a semen sample. The sample goes through a process called “sperm washing,” where impurities, dead sperm, and seminal fluid are removed. This makes sure only the healthiest, most motile sperm are used.
- Insemination procedure: The actual IUI is quick and usually painless. You’ll lie on an examination table, and the doctor will use a thin, flexible catheter to insert the washed sperm directly into your uterus through the cervix. The procedure takes less than 15 minutes and doesn’t require anaesthesia. In some cases, insemination may be done over two consecutive days to maximise success.
- Post-procedure care: After the procedure, you may rest briefly and then get back to your normal activities. Your doctor might prescribe progesterone tablets for 15 days to support the uterine lining. A pregnancy test (Beta hCG) is scheduled about two weeks later to check if the IUI was successful.
What to Expect During and After IUI
The IUI procedure itself is simple and causes minimal discomfort. It is described as similar to a routine pelvic exam. You might feel slight cramping or spotting due to the catheter, but these are rare and usually mild.After the procedure, you can go back to your daily routine. Though your doctor may advise avoiding intensive activities for a day or two. The two-week wait before the pregnancy test can feel long, so try to stay calm with activities like yoga or meditation.
IUI Procedure Success Rate
How well IUI works can depend on a few different factors:- Age: Women under 35 have the highest success rates, around 10 to 20 per cent per cycle. Success rates start to decrease after 35.
- Fertility medications: Using drugs to stimulate ovulation can boost success by increasing the number of eggs.
- Number of cycles: Many couples need 3 to 6 cycles for the best chance of pregnancy.
- Lifestyle factors: Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and reducing stress can positively impact outcomes.
Costs of IUI in India
The cost of IUI in India can differ depending on the city and the clinic you choose. For three cycles, you can expect to pay anywhere between Rs 30,000 and Rs 1,05,000.This usually includes doctor consultations, monitoring, and the procedure itself. You might also need to budget for fertility medications or extra tests. Look for clinics that offer package deals for multiple cycles.
Advantages of IUI
IUI has several benefits that make it appealing:- Simple and quick: The procedure is non-invasive, takes minutes, and requires no anaesthesia.
- Affordable: IUI is significantly cheaper than IVF, often costing 10 times less.
- Minimal risks: Complications like infection or spotting are rare, and there’s no need for complex procedures like egg retrieval.
- Flexible timing: IUI fits easily into busy schedules with fewer clinic visits.
Risks of the IUI Procedure
IUI is generally safe, but there are a few risks to be aware of:- Infection: There’s a slight chance of vaginal or cervical infection from the catheter.
- Spotting: Some people experience minor vaginal bleeding, but this doesn’t affect pregnancy chances.
- Multiple pregnancies: Taking ovulation-inducing drugs can increase the chances of having twins or more. Carrying multiples comes with higher risks and complications during pregnancy.
Tips to Improve IUI Success
To give your first IUI the best chance:- Follow your doctor’s medication and timing instructions carefully.
- Eat a balanced diet and stay active to support overall health.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and excessive caffeine.
- Practise stress-relief techniques like meditation or light yoga.
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FAQs on What is IUI? A Simple Guide for Indian Couples Trying to Conceive
- Can IUI be done at home in India?
At-home insemination kits are available, but real IUI is generally performed in a clinic by a trained professional. - What is the best food for IUI success?
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein can support fertility. Foods high in antioxidants, omega-3s, and vitamins can also improve egg and sperm health.