What is IUI?

IUI, or Intrauterine Insemination, is a fertility treatment that involves placing specially washed sperm directly into a woman’s uterus during her ovulation period. This procedure aims to increase the chances of sperm reaching and fertilizing the egg, thereby improving the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.

IUI is a popular treatment option for couples struggling with infertility issues, particularly when the cause of infertility is unexplained or related to mild male factor infertility or cervical mucus problems. The process is less invasive and more affordable than other fertility treatments, such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF).

During IUI, a fertility specialist prepares the sperm sample by separating healthy, motile sperm from the rest. This “washed” sperm is then introduced into the woman’s uterus using a thin, flexible catheter. The procedure is typically quick and painless, and it’s performed in a fertility clinic without the need for anesthesia.

Why You Should Choose IUI?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that has been around for decades, helping countless couples realize their dreams of starting a family. But why should you consider IUI over other fertility treatments? Let’s discuss the key reasons:

• Less Invasive: Compared to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technologies, IUI is far less invasive. The procedure involves placing sperm directly into the uterus, bypassing the cervix, to increase the chances of fertilization. This method requires minimal intervention and has a quicker recovery time than other options.
• Cost-Effective: When it comes to fertility treatments, the costs can quickly add up. However, IUI is often more affordable compared to other methods like IVF. This makes it an ideal choice for couples who are exploring fertility treatment options without breaking the bank.
• High IUI Success Rates: While IUI may not have the same success rates as IVF, it still has a higher success rate than natural conception for couples experiencing fertility challenges. IUI can be an excellent first step in your fertility journey, providing a less invasive and more affordable option with promising results.

How IUI Treatment is Done?

Now that you know why IUI is an attractive choice for many couples, let’s dive into how the procedure is actually done. IUI treatment involves three main steps:

Step 1: Ovulation Monitoring

Before the IUI procedure, your fertility specialist will monitor your ovulation cycle. This may involve blood tests, ultrasound scans, or ovulation predictor kits. The goal is to identify the most fertile time in your cycle to increase your chances of success.

Step 2: Sperm Preparation

On the day of the procedure, the sperm sample is prepared. This involves “washing” the sperm, a process that separates healthy, motile sperm from the rest. This ensures that only the best quality sperm are used for the insemination.

Step 3: Insemination

Finally, it’s time for the actual insemination. Your fertility specialist will insert a thin catheter into your uterus and deposit the prepared sperm sample. The procedure is usually quick and painless, with minimal discomfort.

And that’s it! The IUI procedure is relatively simple and non-invasive, allowing you to return to your daily activities soon after.

How Soon Can You Expect Results After IUI?

After the IUI procedure, the waiting game begins. But how long should you wait before you can expect results?

Typically, you’ll be advised to take a pregnancy test around two weeks after the procedure. This allows enough time for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterus and for pregnancy hormones to build up to detectable levels.

It’s completely normal to feel anxious or impatient during this waiting period. It’s essential to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally. Engage in self-care activities, like taking a walk, practicing meditation, or enjoying a warm bath. Surround yourself with a support system, whether it’s friends, family, or online communities, to help you through this emotional rollercoaster.

Benefits of IUI

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a popular fertility treatment worldwide, and India is no exception. The benefits of IUI are numerous, making it an attractive option for many couples struggling with infertility. Here are some key advantages:

1. Less invasive: IUI is a minimally invasive procedure compared to other fertility treatments, such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF). This means less physical and emotional stress for the couple undergoing the treatment.
2. Shorter treatment time: IUI cycles are generally shorter than those of other fertility treatments, allowing couples to try multiple cycles within a shorter time frame if necessary.
3. Affordable: Compared to IVF, IUI is significantly more affordable, making it accessible to a broader range of couples.

Risks of IUI

While IUI offers many benefits, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with the procedure. Some of these risks include:

1. Infection: As with any medical procedure, there’s a small risk of infection during IUI. However, this risk is minimal and can be managed effectively with proper care.
2. Multiple pregnancies: IUI increases the chances of multiple pregnancies, particularly when combined with fertility drugs. While many couples may welcome twins or triplets, multiple pregnancies can pose risks to both the mother and the babies.
3. Ectopic pregnancy: Although rare, IUI can increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. This can be a life-threatening condition and requires immediate medical attention.

It’s crucial to discuss these risks with your fertility specialist to make an informed decision about whether IUI is right for you.

Cost of IUI in Delhi

The cost of IUI in Delhi varies depending on factors like the fertility clinic, the location, and any additional treatments or medications required. The cost of a single IUI cycle in Delhi IS ₹15,000 at little angel IVF. This price is considerably more affordable than IVF, which can cost between ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2.5 lacks per cycle.

Keep in mind that the cost of an IUI may not include additional expenses like fertility drugs, blood tests, or ultrasound scans. Be sure to discuss the overall cost with your fertility specialist to avoid any surprises.

Success Rate of IUI in Delhi

The success rate of IUI in Delhi is 35-50% per cycle. This rate may vary depending on factors such as the woman’s age, the cause of infertility, and the quality of the sperm used for the procedure.

It’s worth noting that while IUI may have lower success rates compared to IVF, its affordability and less invasive nature make it an attractive first step in the fertility treatment journey. Many couples may find success after multiple IUI cycles, while others may need to explore additional fertility treatments like IVF.