What is IUI?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a type of fertility treatment that involves placing sperm directly into the uterus to increase the chances of fertilization. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that’s typically used in cases where there are male fertility issues, unexplained infertility, or problems with cervical mucus.
The three Alphabets of IUI stands for the following:
- I-INTRA: Intra means on the inside i.e., within the body.
- U-UTERINE: Uterine means the Uterus.
- I-INSEMINATION: Insemination means the transfer of Male Semen in a Female
Hence in simple words, IUI is the transfer of Male Semen inside the Uterus of a female is IUI. A lot of people get confused with other medical words which mean the same as IUI and hence it’s important to know that IUI also means the following three.
- Artificial Insemination.
- Donor Insemination.
- Alternative Insemination.
To summarize, Artificial Insemination, Donor Insemination, and Alternative insemination are interchangeable words that mean the same procedure i.e., IUI treatment process. Now that you know what is IUI? Dr. Mona Dahiya of Little Angel IVF shares her expert advice about the common questions that people have while searching the internet for IUI treatment in India.
If you’re experiencing fertility issues, you’re not alone. Millions of couples around the world struggle to conceive each year, and many turn to assisted reproductive technologies like IUI to help them on their journey to parenthood. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the IUI treatment procedure, including what it is, how it works, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What to Expect before IUI?
Before undergoing IUI, you’ll need to undergo a series of tests to ensure that you’re a good candidate for the procedure. These may include blood work to assess hormone levels, ultrasounds to check for any abnormalities in the reproductive organs, and a semen analysis for the male partner.
You’ll also need to take medication to stimulate ovulation, which may include oral medications like Clomid or injectable medications like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Your doctor will monitor your progress through ultrasounds and blood work to determine the best time for insemination.
What to Expect During IUI?
During the procedure, you’ll lie on an exam table with your feet in stirrups, similar to a pelvic exam. The doctor will insert a speculum to visualize the cervix and then use a catheter to place the concentrated sperm directly into the uterus.
The process is relatively quick and painless, with most patients experiencing little to no discomfort. You may experience some mild cramping or spotting afterward, but these symptoms typically resolve within a day or two.
What to Expect after IUI?
After the procedure, you’ll need to rest for a short period before resuming your normal activities. You’ll also need to schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor to monitor your progress and determine if any further treatments are necessary.
If the procedure was successful, you may experience early pregnancy symptoms like nausea, fatigue, and breast tenderness in the coming weeks. However, it’s important to note that IUI does not guarantee pregnancy, and you may need to undergo multiple cycles before achieving success.
What is IUI Process?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that involves placing washed and concentrated sperm directly into a woman’s uterus during ovulation. The IUI procedure is relatively simple and is typically performed in a fertility clinic. In this article, we will explain the IUI procedure step by step.
Step 1: Ovarian Stimulation
The first step in the IUI procedure is ovarian stimulation. This involves using medication to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This step is important because it increases the chances of successful fertilization.
Step 2: Monitoring
Once ovarian stimulation is underway, the patient will be monitored closely with ultrasound scans and blood tests. These tests help to track the development of follicles in the ovaries and determine when ovulation is likely to occur.
Step 3: Sperm Collection
On the day of the IUI procedure, the male partner will need to provide a semen sample. This sample will be washed and concentrated to separate the sperm from the seminal fluid. The washed sperm will be used for the insemination.
Step 4: Insemination
The IUI procedure itself is relatively simple and usually takes only a few minutes. The patient will lie on an exam table with her feet in stirrups, and a speculum will be inserted into her vagina to visualize the cervix. A catheter will be threaded through the cervix and into the uterus, and the washed sperm will be injected through the catheter and into the uterus.
Step 5: Rest
After the IUI procedure, the patient will be asked to lie still for a short period of time to allow the sperm to move up into the fallopian tubes. This can increase the chances of successful fertilization.
Step 6: Follow-up
The patient will typically be asked to return to the clinic for a follow-up appointment about two weeks after the IUI procedure. At this appointment, a pregnancy test will be performed to determine if the procedure was successful.
In conclusion, the IUI procedure is a relatively simple and non-invasive fertility treatment that involves placing washed and concentrated sperm directly into a woman’s uterus during ovulation. The steps of the procedure include ovarian stimulation, monitoring, sperm collection, insemination, rest, and follow-up. By following these steps, couples who struggle with infertility may increase their chances of successful conception.
What is IUI Success Rate in India?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a popular fertility treatment in India, with a high success rate for couples who struggle with infertility. The success rate of IUI in India varies depending on several factors such as the age of the patient, the cause of infertility, the quality of sperm, and the number of IUI cycles undergone. According to a study, the average success rate of IUI in India is approximately 15-20% per cycle. However, this success rate can increase up to 40% if the female partner is under 30 years old and there are no underlying fertility issues. The success rate of IUI can also be improved by combining it with other fertility treatments such as ovarian stimulation and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
What is the difference between IUI AND IVF?
IUI is about Internal Fertilization and IVF is about External Fertilization. In the IUI procedure, sperms are injected into the uterus to facilitate internal fertilization while in IVF procedure female eggs are fertilized with male sperms externally in a Lab, and then the combined embryo is transferred in the uterus.
Which is better IUI or IVF?
IUI is better from a Cost perspective and IVF is better from a success rate of pregnancy perspective. IUI is economical and the cost of IUI procedure is about 5% of the Cost of IVF treatment. However, the success rate of IVF per cycle is about 60% as compared to the success rate of IUI per cycle at about 20%.
Is IUI Painful?
IUI is not painful and as a matter of fact, you will not even know that you actually undergo a medical procedure. To make it clear, it is not some operation that requires anesthesia and the entire procedure is done in about 5 minutes. Male sperms are inserted into the uterus with a thin Tube and that’s all about it!
How much does IUI Cost in India?
The cost of IUI in India can vary depending on several factors such as the location of the fertility clinic, the expertise of the doctors, and the additional services required. On average, the cost of a single IUI cycle in India can range from INR 10,000 to INR 25,000. This cost includes the cost of ovarian stimulation medications, sperm washing, the IUI procedure, and follow-up consultations.
Additional costs may also apply if the patient requires additional services such as sperm or egg donation, genetic testing, or embryo freezing. These additional services can significantly increase the overall cost of the IUI procedure.
It is important to note that the cost of IUI in India is significantly lower compared to other countries such as the United States and Europe, where the cost of a single IUI cycle can range from ₹10,000 – ₹ 20,000 . This makes India a popular destination for medical tourism for couples seeking affordable fertility treatments.
In conclusion, IUI is a popular and affordable fertility treatment in India with a high success rate for couples struggling with infertility. The success rate of IUI in India can range from 15-20% per cycle and can be improved by combining it with other fertility treatments. The cost of IUI in India can range from ₹ 10,000 to ₹ 20,000 per cycle, making it significantly more affordable than other countries. However, the cost may vary depending on additional services required. Couples seeking IUI treatment in India should consult with a fertility specialist to determine the best course of action and the estimated cost of the procedure.
Risks of IUI:
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection following the IUI procedure. This risk can be minimized by ensuring that all instruments used during the procedure are properly sterilized.
- Multiple pregnancies: One of the primary risks associated with IUI is the increased likelihood of multiple pregnancies. This is because ovarian stimulation medications used in conjunction with IUI can cause the release of multiple eggs, which can increase the chances of multiple pregnancies.
- Ectopic pregnancy: In rare cases, the fertilized egg may implant outside of the uterus, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Cramping and spotting: Some patients may experience mild cramping and spotting following the IUI procedure. This is a common side effect and usually resolves within a few hours.
Side Effects of IUI:
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): Ovarian stimulation medications used in conjunction with IUI can sometimes cause OHSS, which is a condition characterized by the swelling of the ovaries and fluid accumulation in the abdomen. Symptoms of OHSS can include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
- Mood changes: Some patients may experience mood changes such as anxiety or depression following the IUI procedure. These changes are usually temporary and can be attributed to the hormonal changes associated with the treatment.
- Allergic reaction: In rare cases, patients may experience an allergic reaction to the sperm used in the IUI procedure. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include itching, hives, and difficulty breathing.
In conclusion, while IUI is generally considered a safe and non-invasive fertility treatment, there are some risks and side effects associated with the procedure. Patients should be aware of these risks and should discuss them with their doctor prior to undergoing the procedure. By working closely with a fertility specialist, patients can minimize their risk of complications and increase their chances of a successful pregnancy.
Also Read: Things to Avoid after IUI
Does IUI Treatment Require Bed Rest?
It is recommended that you relax the day that you undergo an IUI cycle but it does not mean that one cannot move around and has to lie on the bed all day. Lie down on your back for 15 minutes after the IUI procedure and don’t do any strenuous physical activity. Take an Off and take it easy for a Day!
How can I Improve my Chances of Successful IUI?
The bottom line is a higher number of IUI cycles that you undergo makes IUI more effective and 90% of women conceive after 3 IUI cycles. Apart from that one should follow a healthy lifestyle with no smoking or alcohol, avoid a High Carb diet, avoid intensive exercise and take vitamin D-rich foods or supplements.
IUI Treatment Precautions to be Taken Before IUI:
Any medical procedure requires some precautions or constraints and it is advised that you take the following 5 precautions before an IUI procedure.
- Quit Consumption of Alcoholic beverages absolute NO to Smoking.
- Avoid outside food and stick to Healthy and Nutritious Home Food.
- Limit the intake of Caffeine products like Soda Drinks and Coffee.
- Consume a Healthy Intake of Fresh Water to wash out Toxins.
- Avoid Physical exertion and stick to light Jog, Walking, or Yoga.
Is IUI covered by Medical Insurance Policy?
Medical Bills exemption as per Tax Deduction U/S 80D ensures that IUI bills are covered under the medical expenses. If you have a medical insurance policy or a corporate medical insurance policy then you can claim a deduction of the IUI treatment as it is less than Rs 25,000/- covered under every medical policy.
What is the Best Age to Do IUI?
The Best age to do IUI is when a woman is in her twenties. Below is an Age group-based percentage rate of pregnancy through IUI.
- 21-24 Years: 40% Pregnancy rate.
- 25-29 Years: 30% Pregnancy rate.
- 30-34 Years: 25% Pregnancy rate.
- 35-39 Years: 20% Pregnancy rate.
- 40-45 Years: 10% Pregnancy rate.
F.A.Q
Q: How long does the IUI procedure take?
A: The IUI procedure itself typically takes just a few minutes, but the entire process, including monitoring and medication, can take several weeks.
Q: Is IUI painful?
A: Most patients experience little to no pain during the IUI procedure, though you may experience mild cramping or spotting afterward.
Q: How many cycles of IUI are typically needed to achieve pregnancy?
A: The number of cycles needed varies depending on individual circumstances, but most patients will undergo several cycles before achieving success.
Q: What are the success rates for IUI?
A: The success rates for IUI vary depending on individual circumstances, but typically range from 10-20% per cycle.
Q: Are there any risks associated with IUI?
A: IUI is a safe and minimally invasive procedure, but there is a slight risk of infection or injury to the reproductive organs.
Q: How long does IUI take to get pregnant?
A: The success rate of IUI depends on various factors such as age, fertility issues, and the number of attempts. It may take multiple IUI attempts before achieving a successful pregnancy.
Q: Is IUI a painful procedure?
A: IUI is generally not a painful procedure. Some women may experience mild discomfort during the process, but it is usually not very painful.
Q: How is IUI done step by step?
A: During IUI, a doctor will insert a small catheter into the woman’s uterus and inject washed sperm directly into the uterus. The process usually takes only a few minutes and does not require anesthesia.
Q: आईयूआई को प्रेग्नेंट होने में कितना समय लगता है?
A: आईयूआई की सफलता अनेक कारकों पर निर्भर करती है जैसे उम्र, फर्टिलिटी समस्याएं, और प्रयासों की संख्या। सफल गर्भावस्था तक पहुंचने में कई आईयूआई के प्रयासों की जरूरत पड़ सकती है।
Q: Is IUI is successful for 1st time?
A: IUI can be successful in the first attempt, but success rates increase with multiple attempts.
Q: Can you get pregnant first try with IUI?
A: Yes, it is possible to get pregnant on the first attempt of IUI, but success rates increase with multiple attempts.
Q: In which case IUI is successful?
A: IUI can be successful in cases of unexplained infertility, low sperm count, or cervical mucus issues.
Q: How long sit after IUI?
A: After an IUI procedure, it is recommended to rest for 10-15 minutes before leaving the clinic. It is not necessary to remain to lie down for an extended period.
Q: How much sperm is inserted in IUI?
A: In an IUI procedure, the doctor will insert between 10-20 million motile sperm directly into the uterus.
Q: What happens 14 days after IUI?
A: 14 days after IUI, a pregnancy test can be performed to determine if the procedure was successful.
