Intrauterine Insemination or IUI
(donor or frozen sperm)
Intrauterine Insemination, also called IUI or artificial insemination, is the process of placing the best sperm inside the uterus. This procedure improves the chances of a pregnancy. If sperm is deposited in the vagina, only about 20% of sperm make it into the uterus and up into the tubes. Through IUI, 100% of the best sperm make it into the uterus and up to the tubes. Expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your sperm to thaw and a semen analysis done to evaluate how well the sperm survived that thaw.
Hours for donor or frozen inseminations:
M-F: 7:30-11:00 am.
S-S: 8:00 – 9:00 am.
Before the Procedure
Make sure you know your donor sample number (if applicable). We will only release the sample if you know the number! Try to maintain a full or partially full bladder. Also, make sure you drink 16 ounces of liquid 30 minutes before the procedure.
What to Expect
During the procedure, a tiny tube will be placed into your vagina and then into the uterus. The sperm will be placed into the uterus through this tube. Although most women say they feel nothing, there may be some cramping at the time of injection of the sperm. The total procedure will take about 15 minutes.
Risks
Sterile gloves and tubes are used to minimize the risk of infection. We do not routinely test the semen sample for infection.
After the Procedure
After the insemination, you will be asked to lie down for about 10 minutes. After that time, you will be able to return to your daily routine.
Semen Count Results
You will be given the amount of total swimming sperm at the time of the insemination. You will also be informed as to how this count relates to pregnancy rates.
When to Call the Doctor
Call immediately if you experience:
§ Cramping lasting longer than one hour
§ Bleeding that fills more than one pad per hour
§ Fever of 100°F or higher or chills