Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
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Texas IVF
Alfred J Rodriguez, MD
Fertility Specialist located in Plano, TX
When infertility is an issue, it often causes anxiety and stress between the partners. Dr. Alfred J Rodriguez of Plano, Texas understands this and is proud to offer intrauterine insemination (IUI) at his reproductive medicine practice, Texas IVF, as an option to increase the chances of achieving a viable pregnancy. If you would like to discuss the use of this advanced reproductive technology, call or book your appointment online today.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Q & A
What is IUI?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a simple procedure that uses the female partner’s uterus as the site for fertilization. When the eggs are their most mature and the uterus is ready to host a pregnancy, semen is introduced directly into the uterus.
The semen is washed and concentrated before being used to inseminate the uterus. This increases the chances that fertilization will happen and pregnancy will take place.
IUI is used most often when infertility is caused by:
- Endometriosis
- Male factor infertility
- Tubal damage
- Ovulation insufficiency
- Cervical issues
- Unknown factors
You also may benefit from IUI if you are using donor sperm to get pregnant.
What does IUI look like?
Dr. Rodriguez will take exceptional care to discuss with you and your partner whether IUI is right for you. The medical team at Texas IVF will walk you every step of the way through the process. IUI has a few simple stages:
Egg preparation
A week or two before the procedure, you may receive a round of medication that will recruit the development of follicles. This increases the chances of ovulation, which is necessary for this reproductive technology to be successful.
Sperm preparation
Before the procedure, the semen is cleaned and concentrated using a fresh semen sample from your partner or donor. This separates out all but the strongest, most active sperm.
Procedure
The sperm will be placed into the uterus using a thin, flexible catheter. This painless procedure just takes moments and then the patient is left to relax for about 15-20 minutes.
When the procedure has been completed, you will resume your regular activities. It will take 10-14 days to confirm whether pregnancy has been successful.
What if IUI is unsuccessful?
The team at Texas IVF understands that when advanced reproductive attempts are not successful, it can be emotionally difficult for you. They strive to offer the utmost compassionate support to you and your family when the end results are not what you hoped for.
If an initial IUI is unsuccessful, it may be repeated. If IUI again doesn’t lead to pregnancy, Dr. Rodriguez discusses other possible solutions, including IVF. He prides himself on working closely with each of his patients to help them reach their goals of a successful pregnancy.
If you would like to consider IUI for your infertility issues, call or book your appointment online today.
