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| Treatments - Intrauterine Insemination/Sperm Wash |
Intrauterine insemination is a simple procedure that helps the sperm to reach the fallopian tubes where fertilization of the egg occurs. It is necessary to “wash” the semen sample before insemination. This process separates the living, motile sperm from the seminal fluid and other debris such as dead sperm. The end result is a small amount of fluid containing living sperm that can be inserted into the uterus.
Women
The female will be required to have either a sonohysterogram, or hysterosalpingogram performed to assess uterine lining as well as tubal patency (open fallopian tubes).
Men
Male partners will be required to have a recent semen analysis, which will determine motility, volume, and morphology.
The Procedure:
After completion of all the required testing, your physician will usually order the treatment (medication in the form of tablets and/or injections), which he/she feels is best suited for you. Natural cycle IUI is also a reasonable option. All treatment cycles are very closely monitored with ultrasound and blood work in an attempt to avoid multiple pregnancies. When follicle size is considered to be suitable for ovulation you will be given an injection to ensure ovulation. This will be followed by an intrauterine insemination using your partner's prepared sperm either the day following injection or for two days following the injection.
An IUI is a simple procedure and requires no anesthesia. A catheter is inserted into the uterus, through the cervix, and the sperm is injected into the uterine cavity. You will be notified of the number of inseminations required. Many couples will wish to try three or four IUI cycles before considering more advanced techniques such as IVF. The odds for conception in IUI cycles vary from 10% to over 30% per cycle, depending on the reproductive health of the couple. |
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