Artificial Insemination (IUI)

Artificial insemination, also known as Intrauterine Insemination is a process that involves delivering motile, active sperm in through the cervix and directly into the uterus, Intrauterine insemination (IUI) can dramatically increase the chances of fertilization and pregnancy. Often, Dr. Brown will combine this treatment with fertility medications to increase the success rate, although IUI can be used without medications in specific cases.  IUI is a cost effective method to increase fertility in couples with mild male factor infertility as well as in cases of unexplained infertility.

For the IUI procedure, you male partner will need to collect a semen specimen and deliver it to our laboratory within one hour of collection. Then, the sperm is prepared so that the specimen will include the most motile sperm.

An IUI is performed in the office and Dr Brown will determine the best time for your IUI to take place. After the collection and preparation of the sperm sample by the lab is complete, the sperm is inserted into the cervix and into the uterus using a thin and pliable catheter. The procedure itself is short and involves minimal discomfort.

Similar to a pap smear, the IUI may produce some mild uterine cramping during the procedure; however, any cramping is typically short lived. After the procedure, you may need to lie down for a short amount of time, but you can resume your normal activities within a few hours.  For the first 48 hours, avoid baths, swimming or douching.  

Two weeks after the IUI, you will return for a pregnancy test.  If your IUI is successful, Dr Brown will continue to monitor your new pregnancy for several weeks until you are released to your ObGyn for continuing care.

If you are not pregnant, Dr Brown will review your cycle and discuss the best options.