Can single women opt for IUI in India?

Yes, single women can pursue IUI using donor sperm at licensed fertility clinics.

Can IUI help after previous miscarriages?

IUI is usually not effective after multiple miscarriages, as it doesn’t treat the underlying causes, which are often chromosomal issues.

How soon after stopping birth control can IUI be attempted?

You can often begin IUI right after stopping birth control, since fertility usually comes back quickly. Although timing may vary based on the kind of contraception you used.

Who Should Consider IUI? Common Medical Reasons Explained

Trying to have a baby and feeling like it’s taking longer than it should? That can be really stressful. If this sounds familiar, you might be curious about intrauterine insemination (IUI). It’s a fertility option many couples in India turn to when natural conception doesn’t happen as easily as hoped.

Your doctor may suggest IUI if your fertility issues are mild or moderate. It doesn’t guarantee a pregnancy, but for the right people, it’s simpler, less invasive, and easier on the pocket than in vitro fertilisation (IVF). Both men and women can have issues conceiving naturally, and IUI is designed to help in these situations.

When is IUI Recommended?

IUI is ideal for couples or individuals with mild to moderate fertility issues, where natural conception is challenging but still possible.

It’s a less complex option than IVF, and can be very effective for certain situations. Here’s who might be a good candidate:

Medical Reasons for Women to Consider IUI

Unexplained Infertility: IUI can work if you’ve been trying to get pregnant for over a year but haven’t been able to conceive. The process is often paired with medicines that will help you with ovulation.
Mild endometriosis: IUI can be effective for women with Stage I or II endometriosis, where the condition is mild and the fallopian tubes are open. Using IUI along with ovulation-stimulating medicines can lead to pregnancy rates of 7 to 18 per cent. But if someone has severe endometriosis (Stage III or IV), IUI is less likely to work.
Ovulatory disorders: IUI can help if you have irregular or absent ovulation due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or mild hormonal imbalances. Medications stimulate egg release, and IUI makes sure sperm reaches the egg at the right time.
Cervical mucus issues: Thick or hostile cervical mucus can block sperm from reaching the uterus. IUI bypasses the cervix by placing sperm directly into the uterus, improving conception chances.

Medical Reasons for Men to Consider IUI

Mild male factor infertility: IUI can still work if your partner has a slightly low sperm count (5 to 10 million motile sperm after washing), poor motility, or abnormal sperm shape. Sperm washing helps pick out the healthiest sperm, which increases the chances of fertilisation. But if the sperm count is below 5 million or motility is very poor, IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be needed.
Sexual dysfunction or ejaculation issues: IUI can work if erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or anatomical issues (like spinal cord injuries) make natural conception difficult.

When IUI is Not Recommended

IUI doesn’t work for everyone. These are the situations where it’s less likely to help:

Blocked fallopian tubes: Sperm cannot reach the egg if both fallopian tubes are blocked (confirmed by an HSG test). This makes IUI ineffective.
Severe male infertility: IVF or ICSI could be better options for you if your partner’s sperm count is very low (less than 1 million post-wash) or motility is severely impaired.
Severe endometriosis: For Stage III or IV endometriosis, the pelvic environment may be too inflamed for IUI to succeed.
Poor ovarian reserve: People with a low egg count or poor egg quality may have less success with IUI. A low egg count is usually indicated by an AMH level under 1 ng/mL or high FSH hormone levels. In these cases, IVF is usually a better option to increase the chances of pregnancy.
Multiple failed IUI cycles: If you’ve tried 3 to 6 IUI cycles without success, your doctor may recommend moving to IVF or other treatments.

Key Factors Affecting IUI Eligibility

Several factors determine if IUI is right for you:

Age: IUI usually works better for women under 35 because their eggs are healthier. After 35, both egg quality and quantity start to drop. Men’s sperm can also get weaker with age, but it usually doesn’t affect success as much.
Duration of infertility: Couples with less than 5 years of infertility have higher IUI success rates.
Sperm parameters: IUI works better when there are at least 5 million motile sperm after washing, and their morphology is normal.
Lifestyle factors: Being overweight can lower your chances of IUI because it can affect ovulation or sperm quality. Keeping a healthy weight helps improve the chances.

Tests to Confirm IUI Eligibility

Before starting IUI, your doctor will recommend certain tests to make sure it’s appropriate:

For Women

Transvaginal ultrasound to check the uterus and ovaries for abnormalities like polyps or cysts.
Hormone tests (TSH, prolactin, AMH, FSH) to assess ovulation and egg reserve.
HSG or laparoscopy to confirm at least one open fallopian tube.

For Men

Semen analysis to evaluate count, motility, and morphology.
Additional tests, like sperm DNA fragmentation or hormonal tests (FSH, LH, testosterone) if severe abnormalities are found.
Viral marker tests (HBsAg, HIV, HCV) for safety during IUI.

When to Start IUI

You should consider IUI if:

You’re under 35 and have been trying to conceive for over a year.
You’re over 35 and have been trying for 6 months.
You have irregular periods, a history of pelvic surgeries, or signs of low ovarian reserve.

IUI is often a good first choice for couples in India with mild fertility problems. But if it doesn't work for you even after repeated cycles, there are other options like IVF, ICSI, or even adoption. The important part is to talk honestly with your doctor and understand your options clearly.
You’re not alone in your journey when trying to conceive. Join our supportive community to connect with others, share experiences, and find encouragement every step of the way.

FAQs on Who Should Consider IUI? Common Medical Reasons in Indian Women & Men

Can single women opt for IUI in India?
Yes, single women can pursue IUI using donor sperm at licensed fertility clinics.
Can IUI help after previous miscarriages?
IUI is usually not effective after multiple miscarriages, as it doesn’t treat the underlying causes, which are often chromosomal issues.
How soon after stopping birth control can IUI be attempted?
You can often begin IUI right after stopping birth control, since fertility usually comes back quickly. Although timing may vary based on the kind of contraception you used.