Introduction to the So-called IUI

Since DH and I is leveling up on our TTC journey, I asked my friend, Mr. Google, to help me explain the so-called Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or known as the artificial insemination procedure. Hereunder are the best explanations I have read in introducing to you IUI.

Intra - Inside

Uterine - the uterus

Insemination - putting the sperm

IUI is the process of putting the best lot of specially prepared sperm directly inside the uterus at the expected time of ovulation - egg release is called "Intra Uterine Insemination". In IUI sperm bypasses the cervical barrier and is put directly inside the uterus. By IUI, sperm is put closer to the fallopian tube, at the time of expected egg release to increase the chance of fertilization resulting in to higher chance of conception.

It is essential for the woman that her fallopian tubes are known to be open and healthy before the IUI process begins. A tubal patency test is usually carried out as part of her assessment by the fertility clinic. The second essential requirement is for the partner to have no significant problem with his sperm numbers or sperm quality.

Now, how does the insemination performed?

1. The woman usually is given medications to stimulate development of multiple eggs and insemination is timed to coincide with ovulation - release of the eggs. The ovulation induction is done with the help of tablets (clomid) or injections to increase the availability of number of eggs at a proper time. This increases chance of number of embryos formed resulting in to higher chance of conceiving.
2. The process of follicle development is monitored through TVS. When follicles are ready, HcG injection is given for final maturations of oocyte abd its release, rupturing of the follicle.
3. A semen specimen is collected after 2-5 days of abstinence from ejaculation. The semen is "washed" in the laboratory (called sperm processing or sperm washing). The sperm is separated from the other components of the semen and concentrated in a small volume. Various media and techniques can be used for the washing and separation. Sperm processing takes about 30-60 minutes.
4. A speculum is placed in the vagina and the cervical area is gently cleaned. Prepared sperm sample (washed semen) is injected in to the uterus with the help of a sterile, flexible catheter. This process of injecting sperm in the uterus is called the IUI.
5. The washed specimen of highly motile sperm is placed either in the cervix (intracervical insemination, ICI) or higher in the uterine cavity (intrauterine insemination, IUI) using a sterile, flexible catheter.

After the procedure is done, the woman is advised to rest, which according to OB is 30-45 minutes then I can go back to my daily routine, including office work, travelling, exercise, etc. No worries,since the sperm has been put above the vagina and cervix, thus, it will not leak out when you stand up. DH and I can also have baby dance from the same day and any time in the same cycle to increase conception. IUI, as Mr. Google says is a very simple, easy and painless procedure. There should be little or no discomfort.

IUI may have a very low success rates but whatever it is, DH and I are determined to take our chances just to conceive. As of now, we are still waiting for Wednesday or Thursday to see if his SA has improved then we will take our decision from there if we will push through with the IUI or move it to the next cycle. Everything that is happening now, we may not understand it, but we hold on to God's embrace that He will lead us to the right path. We have waited long, there is no need to rush. Thy will be done, Oh Lord, according to Your. will.