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IUI is a procedure that allows the fertility specialist to
deposit specially washed and prepared sperm directly into the
uterus via a small flexible catheter. IUI allows the sperm to
bypass the cervix; therefore more are available to fertilize the
egg(s). Unwashed sperm should never be place d
into the uterus as serious, even fatal, allergic reactions can
occur.
IUI is used in some cases of moderate to severe male infertility. In these cases, couples use donor sperm for their IUI cycle.
IUI is a "first line" treatment for some cases of mild male infertility. The degree of male infertility is determined using the semen analysis fertility test. More serious cases of male infertility may require IVF with ICSI.
IUI is usually "stimulated", meaning that fertility drugs such as Gonal-F, Follistim, Bravelle, or Menopur are employed to stimulate follicular development.
IUI is responsible for most high order multiple births
discussed by the mass media. This is because the exact number
of eggs ovulated cannot be precisely controlled. In IVF,
a known number of embryos are placed in the uterus, thus limiting
high order multiple births (>=3). IUI cycles employing FSH fertility drugs should only be managed by an infertility specialist thoroughly
trained in the use of fertility drugs.
IUI requires that the husband bring a semen sample
to the Andrology Lab (see Andrology Lab Information or Handout)
for semen sample washing. The sample can be collected at home,
but we prefer that it be collected on site in our collection room. The couple may also elect to use an IUI sperm donor.
Our fertility clinic office will call the Andrology Lab to schedule
a sperm preparation appointment, usually between 8:30 and 9:00
a.m. The sample is then processed (it takes approximately 1 hour)
and concentrated by our laboratory. Plan to return to the office
at the scheduled time, usually between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. for
the insemination. The insemination procedure is conducted in our Dallas Texas fertility clinic and usually takes a few
minutes. During the procedure, some patients experience minimal
cramping.
IUI procedures
are usually performed the day after an LH-surge is detected, or
36 hours after the fertility drug hCG is administered. If you are being treated with IUI
using husband's sperm, a nurse or physician will notify you of
the appropriate time to perform the insemination. Typically, semen is processed
starting at 8:30-11:30 a.m., with the IUI performed 2 hours later.
Our Dallas fertility clinic office will schedule the sperm washing
procedure with the Andrology Lab. When scheduled, please bring
the semen specimen to the appropriate Andrology Lab. Please pick
up the washed specimen prior to your scheduled IUI time, and deliver
it to our office. When you arrive, please inform us that you have
a semen specimen so that we may place it in our incubator prior
to your IUI.
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