Getting Pregnant with IUI: What You Need to Know

Also referred to as donor insemination and artificial insemination, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment used to help a person who is struggling to conceive.

IUI treatment is offered at Fertility Specialists Medical Group (FSMG) clinics in San Diego and Carlsbad, along with other reproductive treatments. IUI accumulates higher concentrations of good quality sperm close to the egg — which increases the chances that the egg and sperm will unite.

“We cherish each story and each personal connection we’ve made while helping families grow. We are with you, in fertility, whatever the circumstances, whatever the treatment,” states Dr. Arlene Morales, Fertility Specialists Medical Group (FSMG).

What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that requires placing sperm inside a woman’s uterus to promote fertilization. The objective of IUI is to improve the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes and subsequently increase the chance of fertilization.

Getting Pregnant with IUI — Who Does IUI Help?

This procedure is utilized for couples with unexplained infertility, LGBTQ+ individuals/couples, minimal male factor infertility, and women with cervical mucus issues. IUI is often performed in conjunction with ovulation-stimulating drugs.

What is the Main Difference between IUI and IVF?

IUI and IVF are the most common treatments for infertility. What is the primary difference between the two? Fertilization with IUI happens inside the body — while during IVF, the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized in the IVF lab.

What is the IUI Treatment Process?

Once collected, the semen sample is ‘washed’ in the laboratory to concentrate the sperm and remove the seminal fluid. The doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina to see the cervix. A catheter (narrow tube) is inserted through the cervix into the uterus and the washed semen sample is slowly injected. The IUI process relies on placing sperm cells directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation — helping the sperm get closer to the egg.

Does IUI Treatment Have Risks?

The risks associated with the insemination procedure are relatively small. They include minor abdominal cramping and light spotting for the woman post-procedure. The risk of infection from IUI is exceptionally low. Fertility medications can increase the chance of getting pregnant with twins, triplets, or more. Having an IUI does not increase the risk of birth defects.

Why Choose FSMG for Fertility Treatment?

“Now more than ever before, family comes first. We are here to help you grow your family,” states Dr. Wendy Shelly, Fertility Specialists Medical Group (FSMG).

Fertility treatment isn’t about making miracles. It’s about expertise, cutting edge science, perseverance, and hard work. It is also about compassion, understanding, and acceptance.

With a profusion of commitment and compassion — the entire Fertility Specialists Medical Group (FSMG) team, from the physicians to the front desk staff to the laboratory technicians — are invested in your journey.

“FSMG is committed to providing personalized care in a safe, compassionate, and inclusive environment. We focus on providing exceptional care for our patients and serving the diverse population in our local community,” states Dr. Kristi Maas, Fertility Specialists Medical Group (FSMG).