Intrauterine insemination, or IUI, refers to the placement of sperm directly into the uterus, just where the fallopian tubes begin. It is a relatively simple treatment for infertility designed to get more sperm to meet the egg. IUI is performed near the time you ovulate.

Your fertility doctor may recommend IUI when there is a problem with the male partner's sperm, such as a low sperm count or his sperm do not move well. IUI may also be useful if there is a problem with a woman's cervical mucus. IUI may also be an option when the man is not able to ejaculate inside the vagina because of erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or other medical conditions. Sometimes, IUI may also be recommended if your infertility is unexplained.

The insemination procedure is a relatively simple therapy. Your doctor may recommend fertility medication before the procedure to stimulate ovulation. During this process, your doctor will monitor the maturity of the follicles with blood tests and ultrasound. A gonadotropin may also be given to help release the egg when it is mature. The procedure, then, is timed to coincide with ovulation.

The male partner will be asked to provide a semen sample about one to two hours before the insemination. This is done by masturbating into a sterile container at the doctor's office, or at home, if preferable. The semen is then processed, or washed, to separate the sperm from the seminal fluid. This concentrates the sperm into a small volume.

The washed, or processed sperm is placed in the cervix, or high in the cavity of the uterus using a thin, soft catheter. Many women find the procedure similar to having a PAP smear.

If you do not become pregnant, IUI may be repeated over several cycles, sometimes 3 to 4 times. About 5 percent to 25 percent of women who undergo IUI conceive. The pregnancy rate from IUI depends on sperm quality and ovarian factors, such as age and response to fertility medications.

The risks and side effects of IUI include abdominal cramps, spotting, or infection from introducing bacteria through the vagina. Also, the use of fertility drugs may increase your risk for multiple pregnancies and developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). In addition, some men may find it difficult to provide a sperm sample on demand.

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