IUI Treatment

What is IUI treatment?

Intrauterine insemination, also known as IUI treatment is an infertility treatment method that involves the direct injection of specially prepared sperm into the uterus. The process begins with carefully washing the sperm, selecting the most viable ones, and then inseminating them into the woman’s uterus. Subsequently, natural conception can take place, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy. IUI treatment offers a less invasive approach compared to other assisted reproductive technologies and can be a viable option for couples seeking to overcome fertility challenges.

When is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) performed for pregnancy?

IUI treatment is commonly performed in various situations by fertility doctors. It is recommended when there are abnormal semen parameters, issues with cervical mucus compatibility, or difficulties with the male partner ejaculating sperm inside the woman. This may be due to factors like premature ejaculation, low sperm motility, or certain medical conditions such as impotence.

By inseminating sperm directly into the uterus through IUI, the chances of achieving pregnancy are significantly increased. This procedure bypasses potential barriers and places the sperm in close proximity to the egg, increasing the likelihood of successful fertilization. IUI treatment offers a promising solution for couples facing specific fertility challenges, maximizing the opportunity to conceive a pregnancy.

Why IUI is done?

IUI treatment is a straightforward and effective fertility procedure designed to improve the chances of conception. It involves the artificial placement of a highly concentrated sample of healthy sperm into the uterus through the cervix, making it a form of artificial insemination.

Several circumstances may warrant the use of IUI:

1. Endometriosis: For individuals with endometriosis experiencing difficulties in conceiving, IUI medication can stimulate the production of healthy eggs. Subsequently, utilizing IUI can increase the likelihood of achieving pregnancy.
2. Cervical issues: Scarring or problems with cervical mucus production can impede natural pregnancy. By bypassing the cervix and directly placing sperm into the uterus through IUI, the number of viable eggs available for fertilization is enhanced.
3. Unexplained infertility: In cases where the cause of infertility remains unknown, the combination of medication to induce ovulation and the direct placement of concentrated sperm into the uterus through IUI can assist couples in achieving conception.
4. Male infertility: When the male partner has a low sperm count, decreased motility, or abnormal morphology, IUI can be employed to select the most suitable sperm for fertilization.
5. Donor sperm: For females without fertility issues requiring donor sperm, IUI is a commonly used and less invasive procedure to facilitate conception.

Consulting with a fertility specialist will help determine if IUI is a suitable treatment option based on individual circumstances.

IUI treatment procedure

The procedure of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) consists of the following steps:

1. Ovarian stimulation: The woman receives fertility medication to stimulate ovulation, promoting the release of a higher number of eggs during the ovulation phase.
2. Ovulation monitoring: The woman’s ovulation is closely monitored using ultrasound and blood tests to determine the optimal timing for the IUI procedure.
3. Sperm preparation: The sperm sample undergoes a process known as sperm wash, where dead or slow-moving sperm cells are removed, and the concentration of healthy sperm is increased.
4. Insemination: Using a small catheter, the prepared sperm is gently injected into the woman’s uterus, placing it closer to the fallopian tubes where fertilization can occur.
5. Post-procedure care: After the IUI treatment, the woman may be advised to rest briefly and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities.

IUI is a cost-effective fertility treatment option, making it a popular choice among couples. It is considered less invasive compared to more complex and expensive treatments like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

IUI treatment cost in India

The average cost of IUI treatment in India ranges between INR 5,000 – INR 10,000 per cycle in various cities. Compared to other fertility treatments like IVF, IUI is more cost-effective since it involves a simpler procedure and doesn’t require extensive laboratory work. It is usually performed on an outpatient basis, eliminating hospitalization costs. However, additional expenses for medications, tests, consultations, and follow-up visits may apply. Despite the cost, IUI is considered a more affordable option for couples seeking fertility assistance. Consulting a fertility specialist is recommended for accurate cost assessment.

The cost of IUI treatment can vary depending on several factors, including:

1. Your health history and any pre-procedure tests are required.
2. The use of fertility drugs for ovarian stimulation.
3. Ultrasound monitoring and follicle tracking.
4. The number of cycles needed for the treatment.
5. Injections and medications for ovarian stimulation.
6. Ovulation and follicle monitoring.

The final cost of IUI treatment depends on the specific procedure recommended by your fertility expert after a thorough evaluation. There are three common approaches:

1. Natural cycle: This involves no medication for ovarian stimulation and includes steps such as sperm wash, ovulation monitoring, and insemination.
2. Use of clomid: Clomid is a medication that stimulates egg production. The procedure includes sperm washing, oral medication injections, ovulation monitoring, and insemination. The cost may increase by INR 2,000 due to the use of oral medicine.
3. Use of gonadotropins: When a woman has irregular ovulation, gonadotropin injections are administered to trigger ovulation. These injections are more effective than oral medication. The cost for this procedure can range between INR 30,000 and INR 40,000.

It’s important to note that these cost estimates are specific to IUI treatment in India.

Is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) included in insurance coverage?

Previously, most insurance providers did not cover the expenses related to infertility treatments like IUI. However, nowadays, many insurance companies offer coverage for these treatments, sometimes as an additional option. Certain insurance providers may have specific periods, limits, or caps for IUI coverage.

Some insurance plans may combine coverage for infertility treatments with maternity coverage. Nonetheless, it is crucial to thoroughly review the terms and conditions, inclusions, and exclusions of the insurance policy before making a purchase to ensure you understand the extent of coverage for IUI and related treatments.

Success rate of IUI

The success rate of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) varies depending on several factors, including the woman’s age, the underlying cause of infertility, and the quality of the sperm used.

For couples facing male infertility issues, the success rate of IUI tends to be higher. By washing and concentrating the male partner’s sperm before insemination, the chances of successful fertilization are improved. However, for couples dealing with female reproductive system issues, the success rate of IUI is typically lower.

On average, the success rate of IUI ranges from 10% to 20% per cycle, with up to 80% of couples achieving pregnancy after undergoing six cycles of IUI. It’s important to note that as a woman’s age increases, the success rate of IUI decreases. For women over the age of 40, the success rate drops to around 4%.

It’s crucial to consult with a fertility specialist who can provide personalized insights and guidance based on individual circumstances to determine the most suitable treatment approach.

Is IUI procedure painful?

The IUI procedure, or intrauterine insemination, is typically not considered painful. While some women may experience mild discomfort, it is usually temporary and lasts only for a short time. The procedure itself takes just a few minutes to complete. The discomfort is primarily associated with the insertion of a catheter into the uterus to introduce the prepared sperm. It can feel similar to mild menstrual cramps or pressure in the pelvic area. However, healthcare providers strive to make the process as comfortable as possible, using lubrication and offering relaxation techniques. Overall, IUI is generally regarded as a relatively painless procedure.