FAQs about Intrauterine Insemination
FAQs about Intrauterine Insemination
Performed by injecting washed sperm into the uterus using a flexible, very narrow catheter, intrauterine insemination (IUI) takes less than 10 minutes to complete and offers success rates as high as 20 percent/cycle. Factors influencing the success of an IUI procedure include a woman’s age, reasons for infertility and use of fertility drugs.
When Should You Have IUI?
The ideal time for an IUI is within six hours before ovulation or within six hours after ovulation. If the timing of an IUI depends on hCG injections, the procedure is typically done about 24 to 48 hours later. Your doctor will discuss your best options during a consultation appointment.
Is an IUI Painful?
Should I Consider an IUI Even Though Sperm Count isn’t a Problem?
An IUI can increase fertilization rates when cervical mucus is inhibiting pregnancy or with injectable cycles regardless of a sperm count. Trying to get pregnant through intercourse means only the healthiest sperm travel unscathed through the cervix, to the uterus and eventually into the fallopian tubes. An IUI increases the amount of sperm available to fertilize an egg.
Is It Common to Bleed After Having an IUI?
Although it doesn’t happen to all women, bleeding following an IUI procedure is not uncommon. Some women may have a slightly abnormal architecture affecting their cervix that lengthens the process of threading the cervix with the catheter and induces minimal bleeding.
Are There Any Risks to Having an IUI?
The only risk involved with an IUI is mild discomfort and/or spotting after the procedure. If necessary, IUI patients can take Tylenol for cramps but should avoid blood-thinning pain relievers like naproxen or ibuprofen.
Is There Anyone Who Should Not Have an IUI?
Doctors typically do not recommend IUIs for women who previously suffered severe fallopian tube disease, have a history of pelvic inflammatory infections or been diagnosed with endometriosis.
To find out if intrauterine insemination is right for you, please call us today to schedule a consultation appointment: (516) 612-8466.
