IUI - Intrauterine Insemination
A less expensive and less invasive alternative to IVF.
Intrauterine Insemination at Dallas - Fort Worth Fertility Associates
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a common starting point in fertility treatment for many couples. It is a less expensive and less invasive option than IVF, but still with a good chance of success for ideal patients. An IUI also gives your doctor a better chance at determining what might be causing your inability to get pregnant beyond what basic hormonal testing might suggest.
IUI aims to increase the amount of sperm that is able to reach the fallopian tube, in turn, increasing the chance of fertilization on it’s own.
What Can You Expect in the IUI Process?
IUI is an in-office procedure that allows your fertility specialist to place specially prepared sperm directly into the uterus via a small, flexible catheter. IUI allows for sperm to bypass the cervix, giving sperm a better chance to reach and fertilize the egg.
Stimulation
The IUI process begins with medications that stimulate your ovaries, increasing the number of eggs released into your fallopian tubes. During this time, your ovaries are monitored regularly to ensure proper follicle growth and egg development.
Trigger Shot
When your follicles have fully developed and your hormonal levels reach an optimal point, patients will use a hormone injection, also known as a trigger shot, to further stimulate the release of your mature eggs. This is typically done one to two days before the procedure.
Sperm Preparation
On the day of your IUI, sperm is collected from your partner (or thawed from a donor) and then washed to become more highly concentrated.
Insemination
Using a small, flexible catheter, the sperm is then placed into the uterus in a quick procedure. Anesthesia is not required in this procedure. Side effects may include mild cramping.
Pregnancy Test
After two weeks following the IUI procedure, a pregnancy test can be taken.
Typically, we recommend attempting up to three or four cycles of IUI and, if successful results are not achieved, your doctors may recommend a different treatment, such as IVF.
Why Choose Dallas Fort - Worth Fertility Associates for IUI?
When starting your path to family building after facing infertility, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to go for your treatment. Here at Dallas-Fort Worth Fertility Associates, our goal is to make the IUI process as quick and simple as possible, all while keeping you comfortable throughout the entire course of the treatment.
Our entire office is invested in the patient journey and each member of our staff is committed to walking you through whatever path you choose.
Is IUI the Right Treatment for You?
IUI is most often used as the first step in infertility treatment, but it may not be right for everyone. The ideal candidate is someone below the age of 35 with normal hormonal levels and no structural abnormalities.
Typically, IUI is most often utilized when a diagnosis is not apparent or is one of the following:
- Mild Male Factor Infertility such as low sperm count or low sperm motility
- Unexplained Infertility
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Irregular or Absent Ovulation
If you and your partner have been trying to get pregnant and have been unsuccessful for 12 months, it might be time to get evaluated by a fertility specialist. After your initial consult and testing, your physician will help you determine if IUI is the right answer for your specific situation.
IUI Using Donor Sperm
If you are a single woman or a same-sex female couple looking to get pregnant, donor sperm IUI might be a treatment option for you. Less expensive than IVF, an IUI may give you a chance at growing your family in a more budget-friendly way. Visit any of our offices to get your consultation, or to learn more about donor sperm IUI process.
How Much Does IUI Cost?
If you elect to do an IUI, your treatment plan will be shared with your financial counselor. Working with your physician, they will receive information about your treatment plan and put together an estimate of what it will cost to complete your IUI cycle. Your financial counselor will review this information with you, helping you to understand what your insurance might cover and what you might be responsible for in terms of payment.
We know that fertility treatment can mean financial burden on any family. However, here at Dallas - Fort Worth Fertility Associates, we are sensitive to your concerns. Your financial counselor can help you with resources that provide funding to families choosing to pursue infertility treatments.
Ready to build the family of your dreams?
Schedule your consultation with one of our doctors today.
Schedule Consultation