Intrauterine insemination

Artificial insemination intrauterine (AI or IIU)

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It is a procedure by which the processed sperm is introduced into the uterus, during the fertile period.

Your partner’s semen, harvested the same day or previously frozen, can be used, or semen from a sperm donor can be used.

When is AI recommended?
  • Male sperm pathology or erectile dysfunction
  • Cervico-vaginal causes
  • Infertility of unidentified cause
What are the chances of success?

The average success rate for an AI cycle, under 40, is:

  • 8 – 10% for AI with sperm from the partner
  • 12 – 14% for AI with sperm from the donor

Over 40 years, the success rate for an AI cycle is 4 – 5%

The success rate is lower if the duration of infertility is over 3 years.

What are the risks?

The risks are extremely rare, but still possible:

  • Infections
  • Prostaglandin reaction – cramps, nausea
  • Pain
  • Bleeding
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How does an artificial insemination cycle go?
  • Cycle monitoring – ultrasound or ovulation tests
  • Determining the time of insemination
  • Sperm collection and preparation
  • Intrauterine insemination:
    • 1-2 hours after sperm collection
    • With a fine catheter, inserted through the neck, into the uterine cavity
    • It does not cause discomfort
    • It does not require resting in a supine position
    • It allows the immediate resumption of normal activities

Frequent questions

Does artificial insemination also require ovarian stimulation?
  • Insemination can be done in a natural cycle, without stimulation, or by combining ovarian stimulation.
Will the chances of success increase if two inseminations are made in the same cycle?
  • Most studies show that insemination performed at the right time is sufficient.
Is sexual rest before insemination indicated?
  • Both before and after insemination, normal sexual activity is recommended. Sexual rest after 2 days does not help, it can even reduce the chances of success.
How important is the time of insemination?
  • Insemination should be scheduled shortly before ovulation. After ovulation, it may be too late. Oocytes degenerate if not fertilized in the first 12–20 hours after ovulation.
How much artificial insemination (IA) is done before in vitro fertilization (IVF)?
  • After 3-4 cycles of treatment followed by artificial insemination, the chance of getting pregnant by AI no longer increases significantly. At this stage, the transition to IVF is considered.