What is intrauterine insemination?
Insemination is a safe and painless method of treating infertility
Infertility treatment does not have to involve high costs. Thousands of couples around the world have become parents thanks to insemination - a method of assisted reproduction that is painless and completely safe. Find out how the insemination procedure works and who can benefit from it.
What does insemination involve?
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a safe and painless procedure involving the insertion of a sperm sample into the uterus, which has previously been selected and properly prepared under laboratory conditions. The semen is administered through a thin silicone catheter.
The insemination procedure is aimed at married couples and heterosexual couples living in informal relationships. Donor sperm can be used for insemination.
Insemination procedure
Indications for insemination?
The intrauterine insemination procedure can be used by couples who:
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despite good fertility test results and long efforts to get pregnant, remain childless;
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experience idiopathic infertility;
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have at their disposal sperm that are slightly abnormal (insufficiently motile and not very abundant sperm);
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are experiencing ejaculatory dysfunction (patient) or have been diagnosed with endometriosis (stage I and II) or have been diagnosed with anti-sperm antibodies (patient).
Medical visit before insemination:
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Qualification for insemination treatment is based on the results of previous tests. The treatment can be based on the patient's natural menstrual cycle or on monitoring her cycle and hormonal stimulation. A couple who will use donor sperm and are in an informal relationship must make a declaration to this effect at the Registry Office (first the man confirms that he will be the father of the child, then the partner has three months to confirm this). Without the man signing the document, the insemination will not take place.
Preparation for insemination:
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Before the insemination procedure takes place, the patient undergoes a gynaecological examination, cervical culture, cytology and Sono-HSG to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes. At this stage, the course of the menstrual cycle should be observed in order to be able to correctly determine the day on which ovulation takes place.
Cycle monitoring - insemination:
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During cycle monitoring, it may be necessary to take medication to stimulate the ovaries to work. Proper stimulation increases the chances of a successful procedure.
Insemination procedure:
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During the procedure, the patient assumes a supine position, then the doctor inserts a thin catheter 1.5 mm in diameter into the uterus and injects fluid containing sperm through it (only 1 ml of fluid enters the uterus). The direct injection of sperm into the woman's reproductive organs shortens the distance the sperm must travel under natural conditions to reach the egg. As a result, less mobile sperm have a chance of fertilisation. After the insemination, the patient rests, lying down for 5-15 minutes, then can go home.
After the insemination procedure:
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The patient should spare herself, rest a lot and avoid exertion. Hot baths should not be taken.
Frequently asked questions - Insemination:
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) - the most commonly chosen route
This is the most common form of insemination. Pre-prepared semen (usually from a partner, but can also come from a donor) goes directly into the woman's uterus at the time of her ovulation.
This method is quick, painless and often effective - especially in younger women.
Cervical insemination (ICI) - vaginal or cervical insemination) - mild onset
In this case, semen is placed in the cervical area. Sometimes chosen by couples in a home setting or for first attempts at fertility support. It is less advanced, but still an important option, for couples.
Insemination with donor sperm (AID) - the road to parenthood despite obstacles
Sometimes for health, genetic or personal reasons - it is necessary to use sperm from an anonymous donor. In this case, we perform a classic intrauterine insemination, but with semen from a certified bank.
Is insemination painful?
Insemination is a minimally invasive procedure, usually pain-free, although some patients may experience short-term discomfort comparable to a gynaecological examination. This feeling is mainly due to the insertion of a thin catheter through the cervix, rather than the administration of the semen itself.
How much does an insemination procedure cost?
Current prices of insemination procedures (both standard and with donor sperm) in Invimed clinics in Poland, according to the latest price list available online: https://invimed.pl/cennik
How long does it take to get pregnant after insemination?
After an intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedure, the fertilisation process usually occurs within 24-36 hours.
What must not be done after insemination?
After the insemination procedure (IUI), it is important to support the body in the potential embryo implantation process. Do not engage in intense exercise (e.g. running, weight training or contact sports). Excessive stress can affect the hormonal balance and the embryo implantation process. High temperatures can hinder embryo implantation and affect the hormonal cycle. A warm shower instead of a hot bath is a better choice. Do not smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol or use drugs. Also, do not take medication (even herbal) without consulting your doctor.
Is insemination covered by the National Health Service?
Call your Invimed infertility clinic - ask about the availability of an infertility treatment support programme or insemination reimbursement.
When does insemination not make sense?
In the absence of patency of the fallopian tubes - If both fallopian tubes are obstructed (i.e. blocked), sperm cannot reach the egg - then insemination has no chance of success.
Severe sperm disorders - when the partner's sperm contains very few sperm, is immobile or has an abnormal structure, the effectiveness of IUI drops to almost zero.In these situations, in vitro with microinjection (ICSI) is a better option.
Advanced age of the woman (usually > 38-40 years) - In women over 38.-40 years of age, ovarian reserve is much lower and time works against it.
Moderate to severe endometriosis - in advanced forms of endometriosis (e.g. endometrial cysts, adhesions) IUI does not increase the chances of pregnancy. Surgical treatment and/or IVF is usually recommended.
Long-standing unexplained infertility If a couple has been trying for pregnancy for many years and all tests are 'normal', insemination often proves unsuccessful.
Ovulatory disorders that do not respond to treatment
If a woman does not ovulate despite pharmacological stimulation. Ovulation must first be restored or other methods used.
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