What Is IUI?
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a fertility procedure where specially prepared (washed) sperm is placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation, increasing the number of sperm reaching the fallopian tubes and improving the chances of fertilisation.
IUI is less invasive and significantly less expensive than IVF, making it an excellent first-line option for many couples.
Who Is IUI Recommended For?
- Unexplained infertility after 6–12 months of trying
- Mild male factor infertility — low count or motility that does not require ICSI
- Ovulation disorders — PMOS/PCOS where ovulation induction + IUI improves outcomes
- Cervical factor infertility — where cervical mucus prevents sperm from reaching the egg
- Couples where intercourse is difficult for physical or psychological reasons
- Single women or same-sex couples using donor sperm
What Does the IUI Process Involve?
- Baseline assessment — confirming open fallopian tubes (HSG), ovarian reserve, and semen parameters
- Ovarian monitoring — natural cycle or with mild ovulation-stimulating medication
- Trigger injection — to time ovulation precisely
- Semen preparation — sperm is washed and concentrated in the lab on the day of the procedure
- Insemination — a thin, soft catheter places the prepared sperm into the uterus. Takes 5–10 minutes. Mild cramping only — no anaesthesia required
- Pregnancy test — blood test 14 days later
I always ensure that IUI is the right option before recommending it. Open tubes must be confirmed before proceeding — IUI is ineffective if fallopian tubes are blocked. I also time IUI carefully with monitoring to maximise the chance of success in each cycle.
How Many IUI Cycles Should I Try?
Most specialists recommend 3–6 IUI cycles before considering IVF, depending on age and underlying diagnosis. Success rates improve with carefully monitored cycles and ovulation induction where appropriate. After 35, the window for IUI is shorter and Dr. Juneja will counsel you honestly about when to escalate to IVF.