Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine insemination is often used in conjunction with ovulation induction cycles. IUI is an effective treatment for several infertility problems. IUI bypasses the cervix, making it a useful treatment if there has been a problem with an adequate amount of sperm reaching the egg. Sometimes fertility medications such as clomiphene citrate (Clomid) can actually change the thickness of the cervical mucus, preventing the sperm from swimming up into the uterus. IUI is useful for the treatment of mild-to-moderate male-factor infertility, in cases of low sperm count or poor sperm motility. To prepare for the IUI procedure, the sperm are prepared so that the most motile and viable sperm are concentrated into a very small volume. A small catheter is introduced through the cervix and into the uterus and sperm are injected high in the uterus.