IUI many be a treatment option dependent upon the cause(s) of a couple’s infertility. The primary advantage of IUI compared to IVF is that it is less expensive; however, the per cycle success rates with IUI are lower.
IUI patients most often undergo ovulation induction with FSH (Follistim, Gonal-F, Repronex, etc.) to cause the recruitment and development of eggs within the ovarian follicles. Once the eggs are judged mature an injection of hCG is given and the IUI is scheduled at both 18 and 36 hours later. In some instances where there is a low sperm count, we only perform one IUI. Randomized studies comparing single versus double IUI have shown a more favorable pregnancy rate using double insemination.
The male’s sperm for IUI is obtained and specially washed and prepared for insemination into the female. Foreign antigens are removed and the sperm is concentrated. In the IUI procedure, a small catheter is used to pass the sperm sample through the vagina, cervix, and into the uterus in a painless procedure. This process bypasses problems such as poor cervical mucus. Unwashed sperm must never be placed into the uterus as serious allergic reactions can occur.
IUI cycles should be managed by a reproductive endocrinologist thoroughly familiar with the use of injectable fertility medications . Most high order multiple births (>3) result from IUI cycles managed by non-specialists. Unlike IVF, the exact number of eggs ovulated in an IUI cycle cannot be controlled.
When IUI is used in conjunction with ovulation induction, per cycle conception rates almost double. To find out if you are a good candidate for ovulation induction IUI contact our office.
