What Is Insemination (IUI)?

Insemination (IUI — intrauterine insemination) is the procedure in which sperm that has been prepared and concentrated in the laboratory is placed directly into the uterus with a fine catheter around the time of ovulation. It is a simpler, shorter first-line treatment compared with IVF.

The procedure is painless, takes only a few minutes and requires no anaesthesia. Because the sperm is prepared using special washing techniques, the most motile and healthy sperm are selected. It is preferred in unexplained infertility, mild male-factor infertility and when planned alongside ovulation tracking.

The success of insemination depends on age, sperm parameters and the fallopian tubes being open. If pregnancy does not occur after a certain number of attempts, moving on to IVF treatment is recommended. At Clavis IVF Center, which method suits you is decided by our physician after your tests.

Key Points

• Open (patent) fallopian tubes are a prerequisite
• A painless, short procedure requiring no anaesthesia
• First-line option in mild male factor and unexplained infertility
• Progression to IVF is advised after failed attempts