IUI
IUI treatment stages
What happens in an IUI cycle?
IUI involves placing prepared sperm directly into the woman's womb via the cervical canal close to the time of ovulation. There are two types of IUI which your specialist can discuss with you and then advise you on the most appropriate type for your case. Natural IUI means that you do not need to take any medication whereas stimulated IUI requires you to take medication to stimulate your ovaries prior to your insemination procedure.
Natural cycle IUI
If you are not using fertility drugs, IUI is done between approximately days 10 and 16 of your monthly cycle - with day one being the first day of your period. You are asked to do urine tests to identify when you are about to ovulate. This will be from around day 8 of your cycle. You will then need to call the clinic to inform them of your results and you will be given a time for the procedure to take place.
Stimulated cycle IUI
If you use fertility drugs to stimulate your ovulation, vaginal ultrasound scans will be used to monitor the development of your follicles. As soon as the follicles are ready, you will be prescribed a hormone injection to stimulate the egg release.
Insemination
To do this, the doctor/nurse first inserts a speculum into your vagina (as for a cervical smear test). The prepared sperm is then inserted via a small catheter (a soft, flexible tube) into your womb via your cervix. The whole procedure takes just a few minutes and is usually a painless procedure, however, some women may experience a temporary, menstrual-like cramping. You may wish to rest for a short time before going home. You will be provided with a pregnancy test kit and will be asked to check for pregnancy 14-16 days after the procedure.
