Intrauterine
Insemination (IUI)
Sometimes the egg and the sperm need a little help coming together. With intrauterine insemination, you can increase your chances of the two meeting, and ultimately creating a baby.
About Intrauterine Insemination
Following intercourse, only a few hundred sperm will make their way to the egg. With IUI, millions of active sperm are placed into the uterus and fallopian tubes, increasing the chance of fertilization and pregnancy.
IUI is timed to coincide with the patient’s ovulation with careful monitoring of a patient’s cycle.
It is almost always used in conjunction with fertility medication in cases such as:
- slightly decreased sperm count or motility
- hostile cervical condition
- sexual dysfunction
- with use of donor sperm
- unexplained infertility
Fertility Centers of New England offers IUI as an initial treatment option for patients, which can be an effective first step toward pregnancy.
Commonly Asked Questions About Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI (intrauterine insemination) is a fertility treatment where specially prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus around ovulation to increase the chances of fertilization.
IUI may be appropriate for unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, ovulation disorders, donor sperm treatment, LGBTQ+ family building, or single parents pursuing pregnancy.
IUI success rates vary depending on age, diagnosis, medication use, and overall fertility health. Success tends to be higher in carefully selected patients.
Many patients consider 3–6 IUI cycles before moving to IVF, though the ideal approach depends on age, diagnosis, and treatment response.
IUI is generally a quick and well-tolerated procedure, though some patients experience mild cramping or temporary discomfort.
An IUI cycle typically follows your natural menstrual cycle and may include monitoring, ovulation timing, medication, and insemination over several weeks.
Coverage varies by insurance plan and state. Our team can help review your benefits.
