Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is considered the least invasive method of assisted reproduction. Around the time a woman's ovary releases one or more eggs, the prepared sperm are directly inserted into the uterus through a catheter to achieve fertilization. What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)? IUI is a process in which washed sperms are deposited in the woman's uterus to facilitate the fertilization of the woman's egg. The purpose of IUI is to increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes, thereby increasing the chances of conception. The IUI procedure is simple and can be done even if the woman is not taking medication to improve her egg production. Many doctors encourage women to take medication to stimulate the ovaries to increase egg production and, if possible, the chance of pregnancy. The IUI procedure is short, involves minimal discomfort and is often a cheaper alternative to in vitro fertilization (IVF pregnancy). The best candidates for IUI are those who have the following characteristics: women under 40, women with unobstructed fallopian tubes, women with a hostile cervix (eg, very thick cervical mucus), women in need of donated sperm, men with mild sperm problems. Motility, count and morphology, and men with sexual or erectile dysfunction. **Dr. Bita Zalali's explanation about gender determination** through IUI and IVF Inoculation process Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is performed with a very thin and flexible catheter. The catheter passes through the cervix and directs the treated sperm into the uterine cavity. **How long is the injection?** Maximum two and a half minutes. It takes about one to one and a half minutes for the catheter to pass through and reach the uterus and channel the sperm, and another minute for the catheter to be removed (this is the time required for an experienced fertility specialist to not cause discomfort to the woman undergoing insemination). **When is inoculation done?** As close to ovulation as possible, whether natural or drug-induced. We try to inseminate six hours before or after ovulation. Note that the egg can survive for up to 24 hours after ovulation. **How long does purified sperm survive?** for approximately 48 hours, although there are significant differences among men. However, after the first 24 hours, it begins to lose momentum. The ideal time is to inseminate six hours before or after ovulation. What is the best way to collect semen? How long before inoculation?** Ideally, sperm should be available half an hour after production to be ready for insemination. Therefore, the method of masturbation in a special quiet and secluded place in the clinic is preferred. You will use the sterile container that we provide. But if your home is near us (Challandri), you can collect the sperm in a sterile container that you can get from the pharmacy. Then you bring the sperm to the clinic (provided that the transfer does not take more than an hour) and the laboratory preparation steps are done there. **How many eggs are required for insemination?** Usually one to three. This is a decision that couples take after the doctor has explained to them that having more than one egg (eg 2 or 3) increases the chance of a positive pregnancy test, but also increases the chance of having multiples (twins, triplets, etc.). IUI methods There are two types of IUI methods: **When coordinated with the normal ovulation cycle (non-stimulated cycle):** A blood or urine test is done to detect when a woman ovulates and then IUI is performed. If ovulation is stimulated with fertility drugs, the procedure is called a stimulated cycle. The growth of the follicles on the ovary is controlled by ultrasound and when it reaches the appropriate size, another hormone is administered to cause ovulation. This approach increases the number of eggs released during ovulation and subsequently gives a greater chance of successful conception. **Insemination is done at the time of ovulation:** Sperm is collected from a partner or donor and prepared for both types of IUI using the same protocol. This includes removing potentially toxic agents and concentrating the healthiest and most motile sperm. The prepared sperm is placed in the uterine cavity. In general, IUI is a painless procedure that only takes a few minutes. However, despite the advantages of this method, the risks associated with the use of fertility drugs must be considered. IUI is an effective treatment for the causes of infertility IUI is an effective first-line treatment for many causes of infertility, including: - Mild male infertility - The factor associated with the cervix - Infertility related to endometriosis - Infertility without reason - In cases where the use of donor sperm is required. Read more: Investigation of female infertility and its causes The success rate of IUI is usually between 15 and 20 percent per cycle. The effectiveness of IUI depends on many variables, including the age of the woman, the reason for infertility, and the use or non-use of fertility drugs. However, although IUI is a less invasive and less expensive option, pregnancy rates through IUI are lower than IVF.