IUI Intrauterine insemination

• Introduction

  Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is the process whereby a concentrated specimen of sperm is placed in the uterus.

• Medications for Intrauterine Insemination

  Clomiphene citrate (Clomid) is a medication commonly used for the treatment of women with ovulation disorders as reflected by infrequent or irregular menstrual cycles. Clomid is a pill taken orally for 5 days, and facilitates the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). FSH and LH, in turn, stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs and the ovarian hormones estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4). Sometimes, in addition to Clomid, an injection of hCG (Ovitrelle) is also recommended prior. Monitoring of egg development is usually done with blood hormone tests and ultrasound scans of the ovaries to determine when the egg is mature.

• Sperm washing

  Our specialized team of embryologists prepare each sperm sample with a procedure commonly known as "sperm washing" in our andrology laboratory. Sperm washing involves placing the sperm sample in a test tube and then a centrifuge, which results in the sperm collecting in a "pellet" at the bottom of the test tube. The final sample consists of the most active sperm concentrated in a small volume of media.

• Timing the insemination

  Our doctors generally perform IUIs 1.5 days after the trigger injection which sets ovulation in motion. Following the IUI, a patient will take daily supplemental progesterone, to support the endometrial lining of the uterus and implantation of the embryo.

• The pregnancy test

  Two weeks after insemination, in the privacy of their own home, a patient will perform a pregnancy test and advise the outcome so Glasgow Royal Fertility Clinic can plan the next steps.

1. Are there different types of IUI cycles?

   There are three different types of IUI cycles based on your individual diagnosis and your response to treatment:

   Non-medicated cycle with IUI: Also known as natural cycle IUI, a non-medicated cycle with IUI is often used by single women or same-sex female couples who are not directly experiencing infertility, but rather a lack of sperm. This treatment involves tracking the development of the egg that is naturally recruited during a menstrual cycle and then introducing the donated sperm. You will come into the clinic for two to four monitoring appointments to track egg development and cycle timing.

   Ovulation induction with IUI: The goal with ovulation induction is to recruit and develop a single egg during the stimulation phase. At the time of ovulation, insemination occurs, placing the sperm directly into the uterus. IUI puts the sperm closer to the egg than possible with intercourse alone. You will come into the clinic for three to five monitoring appointments to track egg development and cycle timing.

   Injectable medication cycle with IUI: If pregnancy doesn't result from ovulation induction with oral medications, the next step is to use injectable medications. These medications stimulate the ovaries to produce two to three eggs; when combined with IUI, you have an increased possibility of conception. Essentially, the sperm is given more targets to hit. You will come into the clinic for four to eight monitoring appointments to track egg development and cycle timing.

2. Can I have intercourse during an IUI treatment cycle?

   You may have protected intercourse at any time during your treatment cycle. Unprotected intercourse is advised only when instructed by your doctor.

3. How often do I need to come in for monitoring?

   This will vary between treatment cycle types. Generally patients have an average of two to four appointments before the IUI if they are not using ovulation stimulating medications, and three to eight appointments if they are using medications. Closer monitoring and more appointments are required if you are using injectable medications vs oral medications only.

4. When does my husband/partner produce a sample for the IUI?

   He will need to produce sperm sample the same day as your IUI. Drop-off is scheduled 1.5 hours before the IUI. The specimen should not be produced longer than 2 hours from appointment time. Patients are provided with a specimen cup so he can produce in the comfort of his home. If he chooses to use a collection room, that is also available.

5. Do I need to lie down after an IUI?

   It is not a requirement to lie down after an IUI but if you choose, you can lie in the recovery room for 5 to 10 minutes after procedure and then resume with your normal activities.

6. Do I need to take it easy after an IUI?

   Most people can return to regular activity following the procedure, but it is suggested during this time that you refrain from high impact activity. If you start to feel any type of cramping, we recommend you take it easy.

7. How long after an IUI should implantation occur?

   Implantation usually occurs within 36 to 48 hours after the procedure.

8. When will I find out if I am pregnant?

   Approximately 2 weeks after the insemination, you will perform your urinary pregnancy test. We will provide you with the exact date to perform the pregnancy test.

Fees

Our full price list can be found here for download. Should you have any questions about the fees, please contact us on 0141 956 0509 and speak to a member of staff.