IUI – Intrauterine insemination, is a procedure to transport processed sperm directly into uterine cavity. In natural conception, semen is deposited in front of cervix. About one thousandth of spermatozoa will swim into the fallopian tubes. There is one million times dilution in fallopian tube. In the fallopian tube, usually only hundreds of spermatozoa are present. If the sperm concentration if not good, IUI is a procedure that can help due to the dilution from the cervix to the uterine cavity. This procedure directs quality spermatozoa into the uterine cavity, with the procedure timed a the ovulation period.
Raw semen contains prostaglandins which will cause cramping of uterus. To avoid the cramping pain, raw semen is usually processed through washing or density gradient to remove prostaglandins and remove inactive/dead/decaying spermatozoa. The number of spermatozoa injected into the uterine cavity is about 5-10 million motile spermatozoa. IUI – Intrauterine insemination, is the first method to enhance sperm to meet egg. There are 2 concerns:
1. the success rate is lower than IVF. An individual can try for 3 cycles of IUI. If pregnancy is not achieved by then, advancement to IVF is suggested.
2. To the female, sperm is foreign substance. High concentration of spermatozoa in the uterus serves as antigen to induce anti-sperm antibody. Presences of antisperm antibody can worse the fertility problem.
Contact us today if you are interested in inquiring about Harvest Fertility treatments. We will provide a comprehensive medical evaluation, to see which treatment is right for you. We are here for you at every step of your journey.