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Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that involves placing sperm inside a woman’s uterus to facilitate fertilization. The goal of IUI is to increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes and subsequently increase the chance of fertilization.

IUI provides the sperm an advantage by giving it a head start, but still requires a sperm to reach and fertilize the egg on its own.

IUI procedures are typically prescribed to address decreased sperm count or reduced sperm mobility. At Integrated Health Clinic, our process begins with a thorough assessment of each couple to affirm the root cause of their infertility concerns. This includes medical history review, physical examination, laboratory testing (blood work), and sperm analysis.

Q and A on IUI

What is the success rate for IUI?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) when combined with controlled ovarian stimulation reported a five-fold increase in pregnancy rate in comparison to natural cycle.

What is the cost, and is there a waitlist for IUI?

IUI is offered as part of the IHC fertility program. A new patient visit is required, prior to being offered IUI. The cost is $400 per IUI. Additional visits for ultrasound monitoring, consultation are billed as 15 minute, 30 minute slots. No, there is no waitlist.

What is an OPK?

An OPK is an ovulation predictor kit and it is used to detect the LH surge in the menstrual cycle. Patients are instructed on how to monitor LH at home during their cycle. OPK kits may be purchased through the clinic, or through a local pharmacy.

How many IUI’s can I do consecutively?

If the IUI cycles have been medicated (Clomid or Tamoxifen), 3 cycles are completed before a break is taken and the treatment plan is re-assessed. Usually 6 cycles of IUI are completed before moving onto other therapies.

Do I need to use Clomiphene Citrate or Tamoxifen with IUI?

It is strongly recommended that women take Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid®/Serophene®) or Tamoxifen when doing IUI as it will significantly increase the chances of success.

Is the procedure painful?

The IUI is relatively painless procedure. It is similar to having a PAP test done.

Are there restrictions to my activity following IUI?

We have patients lie down for 10-15 minutes following the IUI procedure. After the IUI has been performed, normal activities may resume.

Is it difficult to give the HCG trigger shot at home?

No it is not difficult to give the trigger shot, once you have received the information for the prescribing doctor. There are some on line videos available to help with the mixing, drawing up, and injecting of the medicine.