If a couple is unable to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse, infertility is suspected. In such cases, they should consult a physician, undergo the necessary tests, and start a treatment plan tailored to the infertility diagnosis. Today, highly effective infertility treatments are available, allowing many couples who struggle with conception to successfully have children.
Throughout history, many couples have faced difficulties in conceiving. This may result from multiple factors, a single cause, or sometimes no identifiable reason at all. When couples consult a specialist, diagnostic tests are performed, and treatment steps are determined jointly by the physician and the patient. Since treatments are personalized, accurate diagnosis and evaluation are very important. Physicians decide on the appropriate treatment method based on the patient’s test results and symptoms, making communication between doctor and patient essential.
One of the methods used after an infertility diagnosis is intrauterine insemination (IUI). This is a commonly chosen treatment method for couples wishing to conceive, and many achieve pregnancy through it. The success of IUI depends on the man’s sperm quality and motility as well as the woman’s age. In this procedure, sperm collected from the male partner is prepared in the laboratory and directly placed into the woman’s uterus. Before the procedure, tests are carried out to ensure there are no conditions that would prevent IUI. The woman’s fallopian tubes must be open, and the sperm must meet quality, count, and motility requirements. The woman’s age, marriage duration, and ovarian reserve are also considered.
Prepared sperm is transferred into the uterus with the aim of reaching the fallopian tubes. IUI is typically recommended in cases where the male has erectile dysfunction, low sperm count, or reduced motility. Infertility must be properly diagnosed beforehand, and all pre-treatment tests are crucial. Ovarian stimulation medications must always be administered under medical supervision. Semen samples must be collected in sterile conditions, and abstinence guidelines should be followed if advised.
In women, mild ovarian stimulation is carried out using tablets or injections to promote egg development. Once the follicles reach the desired size, a “trigger injection” is administered to mature the eggs. At the exact time of ovulation, prepared sperm is transferred into the uterus through a thin catheter. This is a painless, anesthesia-free procedure similar to a gynecological exam. After a brief 15-minute rest, the patient can return to daily activities. Sexual abstinence is not required afterward.
Pregnancy is tested 12–14 days after insemination. If positive, a normal pregnancy follow-up begins, identical to naturally conceived pregnancies.
Who Can Benefit from IUI?
Men with low sperm count or motility
Couples with unexplained infertility
Early-stage endometriosis
Women with ovulation problems
Couples who wish to speed up conception
In cases where infertility is solely due to sperm issues, IVF is not always necessary. Depending on the severity, IUI can be a suitable option.
How Are Sperm Prepared for IUI?
Sperm preparation depends on the sperm parameters. Techniques such as “swim-up” or “density gradient centrifugation” are used. Preparation takes around 2 hours and must be carried out with precision, as it directly affects success rates.
Success Rates
IUI has a success rate of 10–30%, with an average of around 20%. Success largely depends on sperm quality and quantity.
How Many Times Can IUI Be Tried?
IUI is typically recommended 2–3 times before moving on to IVF. However, it can be attempted up to 6 times. Each cycle offers a chance of pregnancy.
Waiting Period Between Attempts
If pregnancy is not achieved, IUI can be repeated the following month without any health risks, since the medications used are mild.
Important Considerations
Ovarian stimulation can sometimes lead to more eggs than expected. If too many eggs develop, the cycle may be canceled to avoid risks. In such cases, IVF is recommended as it offers higher success rates.
Pregnancy achieved via IUI is identical to a naturally conceived pregnancy in terms of development and monitoring.
