Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a commonly used fertility treatment that can help couples trying to conceive. It involves placing specially prepared (washed) sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. By bypassing the cervix and placing the sperm closer to the fallopian tubes, IUI increases the chances of the sperm reaching and fertilizing the egg.
IUI is often combined with ovulation induction or controlled ovarian stimulation using medications to encourage the growth and release of one or more eggs. This increases the number of eggs available for fertilization and improves the likelihood of pregnancy.
IUI is often recommended as a first-line fertility treatment in certain cases of both male and female infertility.
In men, IUI can be beneficial when there are mild abnormalities in the sperm count, motility, or morphology. It may also be used in cases of ejaculatory or erectile dysfunction, where timely natural intercourse is difficult. By processing (washing) the semen and placing it directly into the uterus, IUI improves the number of motile sperm reaching the egg.
In women, IUI is often advised when ovulation is irregular or absent, such as in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) usually, in combination with ovulation induction medications to improve egg development and timing. It may also be offered in cases of unexplained infertility, cervical factor infertility and certain cases of mild endometriosis, provided the fallopian tubes are open and ovarian function is adequate. IUI can also be recommended for women who are unable to have intercourse due to sexual pain disorders, such as vaginismus.
IUI can be performed during a natural menstrual cycle or in combination with controlled ovarian stimulation, depending on the patient’s specific situation. Follicular development is monitored through pelvic ultrasound, and when a mature follicle is observed, medication is given to trigger ovulation at the optimal time.
The procedure is scheduled close to ovulation to increase the chances of fertilization. On the day of IUI, a semen sample is collected and prepared in the laboratory through a process called sperm washing. This technique isolates the healthiest and most motile sperm while removing seminal fluid, which may cause uterine cramping if introduced directly into the uterus. This preparation usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.
The IUI procedure is quick and generally painless. While lying down, a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina so the cervix can be seen. Then, a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is carefully passed through the cervix into the uterus, and the prepared sperm is introduced. After the procedure, a short rest may be recommended before going home.
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Irregular or absent ovulation, usually with medication.
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When no clear cause has been found.
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In selected cases, when the fallopian tubes are open.
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Including sexual pain disorders such as vaginismus.
IUI is often a first-line fertility treatment for certain causes of male and female infertility, when the fallopian tubes are open. It may be suitable for:
When no clear cause has been found.
IUI bypasses the cervix to help sperm reach the egg.
Including sexual pain disorders such as vaginismus.
Led by experienced fertility specialists, our team combines medical excellence with heartfelt care to support you on your journey to parenthood.
The success of IUI depends on your age, the underlying cause of infertility, sperm quality, and whether ovulation medication is used. Success is measured per cycle and builds up over several attempts rather than in a single try, which is why IUI is usually planned as a short course of cycles. If pregnancy does not happen within that course, your specialist may recommend moving on to IVF or ICSI.
We discuss realistic, personalised expectations with you before starting, so you understand what IUI can and cannot do in your situation.
The main difference is where fertilisation happens. In IUI, prepared sperm is placed into the uterus and fertilisation happens naturally inside the body. In IVF, eggs are collected and fertilised in the laboratory, and an embryo is transferred to the uterus.
IUI is simpler, less invasive and more affordable, with a lower success rate per cycle; IVF is more involved and more costly, with higher success per cycle. IUI is often tried first when the fallopian tubes are open and sperm quality is adequate, with IVF considered if IUI is unsuccessful or not suitable.
IUI is a low-risk procedure. Most women feel only mild cramping or light spotting, and serious complications such as infection are rare. When IUI is combined with ovulation-stimulating medication, there is a small increase in the chance of a multiple pregnancy (twins), which is why your cycle is monitored with ultrasound. After the procedure there is no need for bed rest; you simply wait about two weeks before taking a pregnancy test often called the “two-week wait.”
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Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is what our clients are saying about us. We only make the best out of you and put a beautiful smile your faces.
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IUI is usually quick and generally painless. Some women feel mild cramping, similar to period cramps, as the catheter passes through the cervix, and this settles quickly. No anaesthetic is needed.
In IUI, prepared sperm is placed into the uterus and fertilisation happens inside the body. In IVF, eggs are collected and fertilised in a laboratory before an embryo is transferred. IUI is simpler and more affordable; IVF has a higher success rate per cycle and is often considered if IUI is unsuccessful.
IUI success depends on age, the cause of infertility and sperm quality, and it builds up over a few cycles rather than in a single attempt. Your specialist will give you a realistic, personalised estimate for your situation.
IUI is usually tried for a limited number of cycles (often three to four). If pregnancy has not happened in that time, your fertility specialist will discuss moving on to IVF or ICSI.
Sperm washing is a laboratory process that prepares the semen sample before IUI. It isolates the healthiest, most motile sperm and removes seminal fluid, which could otherwise cause uterine cramping. It usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.
New Hope IVF offers intrauterine insemination in Sharjah, serving patients across the UAE including Dubai. Book a consultation to find out whether IUI is right for you.
If you’re trying to conceive and wondering whether IUI is right for you, our fertility specialists in Sharjah will assess your situation and build a plan around your body and your goals.
