Artificial Insemination – Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Artificial insemination, specifically Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), is an advanced medical technique designed to help couples who are having trouble conceiving.

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What is artificial insemination for pregnancy?

Artificial insemination involves placing sperm directly into the uterus after a prior stage of ovulation stimulation to increase the chances of fertilization and pregnancy. The sperm is injected directly into the uterus (IUI) through a thin tube inserted through the cervix, and the procedure takes about 15 – 30 minutes.

Requirements for artificial insemination – IUI:

• The ovaries must be able to produce healthy eggs.
• There should be no blockages in at least one of the fallopian tubes.
• The man must have a sufficient number of healthy sperm.

Steps of artificial insemination – IUI with images:

The first visit is on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle, where the woman first undergoes a basic transvaginal ultrasound examination.

1. Ovulation stimulation begins on that day through daily oral medications or injections. Regular follow-up visits are required to monitor the response to stimulation using ultrasound imaging. When the follicles reach a mature size, ovulation is triggered by an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG).
2. The man collects the semen sample in a sterile cup after abstaining from ejaculation for 4-5 days, and the semen sample is processed in the laboratory for approximately 40-60 minutes. During that time, the sample is placed in a centrifuge and washed to purify it from all impurities and bacteria. Highly motile sperm are separated by special techniques.
3. After 36-40 hours of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injection, healthy sperm are injected directly into the uterus in a very simple, painless, and quick procedure with no need for anesthesia.
4. About 12-14 days after intrauterine insemination (IUI), a test is done to check for a successful pregnancy.

There is no need for bed rest after the procedure, and the patient can resume normal activities immediately. Sexual intercourse is not prohibited. On the contrary, it is recommended to do so two days after the procedure. 

The difference between artificial insemination – IUI and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI):

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a type of assisted reproductive technology. The main difference between IUI and ICSI lies in where fertilization occurs:

• In Intrauterine Insemination – IUI: The egg is fertilized by sperm inside the uterus.
• In Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): The eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and the resulting fertilized embryos are then transferred into the mother’s uterus. 

What is the success rate of intrauterine insemination – IUI for a healthy couple?

The success rate of artificial insemination – IUI for a healthy couple depends on several factors, including:

• The woman’s age.
• Egg and sperm quality.
• Doctor’s experience.
• The advancement of the devices and tools used.

The success rate of IUI for a healthy couple usually ranges from 20-40% per insemination attempt.

Pregnancy symptoms after artificial insemination – IUI:

Pregnancy symptoms appear about 10-12 days after artificial insemination – IUI procedure, and these symptoms include:

• Light bleeding or spotting.
• Colic or mild cramps.
• Swollen breasts or tenderness to the touch.
• Changes in vaginal discharge.
• Nausea, bloating, fatigue, and tiredness.

The woman should undergo a blood test 14 days after the IUI procedure to confirm the pregnancy and follow up with the doctor.

Is artificial insemination a painful procedure?

Artificial insemination is not painful and usually does not require anesthesia. However, some women may feel anxious or nervous during intrauterine insemination (IUI). The medical team provides the necessary psychological support to alleviate these feelings.

Restrictions after artificial insemination – IUI:

After artificial insemination – IUI procedure, it is important to avoid:

• Stress and strenuous activities.
• Playing violent sports.
• Heavy lifting.
• Unhealthy foods.
• Caffeine.
• Smoking.
• Drinking alcohol.
• Hot baths.

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The cost of artificial insemination – IUI in Egypt:

The price of artificial insemination – IUI  in Egypt varies according to several factors, including:

• Doctor’s experience.
• Fertility center.
• The tools and devices used in the procedure.

At Sunrise Fertility Center, we are keen to provide the best service, with a group of the best doctors specialized in treating infertility issues, using the latest medical devices and advanced technologies, with an integrated medical team to provide support and follow-up throughout the treatment journey.

In conclusion:

Although achieving pregnancy can be challenging in many cases, science has not failed to provide innovative techniques to help couples achieve their dream of having a child, and artificial insemination – IUI is one of the latest of these techniques, which is provided by Sunrise Fertility Center using the best-advanced tools, with a group of the most skilled gynecologists, obstetricians, fertility specialists, and andrologists, who specialize in infertility treatment.