This is one of the simplest forms of assisted reproductive techniques. Human fertilization is a complex process and out of millions of sperms deposited in the vagina during intercourse, a few thousand reach the potential site of fertilization. This high loss is due to a variety of factors namely vagina acidity, cervical mucus hostility and sub normal semen parameters.
IUI overcomes some of these barriers responsible for migration of sperms to the distal part of the fallopian tube. The aim of IUI is to deposit a bolus of concentrated motile sperms as close to the oocyte as possible.
The prerequisite for IUI being:
|
Patent fallopian tubes or tube |
|
Documented ovulation |
|
Semen parameters - (5 - 10 million sperms of Gr III / IV motility) |
For this procedure the patient is put on ovulation induction with clomiphenecitrate/letroz/HMG as and when required. Ovulation monitoring is done from D - 9 onwards by vaginal sonography. Generally one IUI is done 36 hrs after HCG injection. The male partner is required to give a semen sample on that day. In case of a subnormal semen parameters, where the patient does not want to go for IVF, donor semen samples can be used from the sperm bank after consent from both partners.
A semen collection room with audio-visual aids is provided for the semen collection which is done by masturbation. After collection the semen sample is processed to enhance the fertilization capacity of the sperms and remove the cellular debris and abnormal sperms. Our center is one of the few clinics which has a viewing gallery wherein the patient is shown the washed semen sample prior to the insemination.
The IUI procedure is done as an outpatient procedure. It is a painless procedure and the patient is advised to lie down for approximately 30 minutes following the procedure. The patient may be put on some medications following the procedure, like folic acid, low dose aspirin and progesterone support if required. Pregnancy test or B.HCG is done after 14 days. Chances of conception are approximately 15 - 30% per patient cycle. |
