Intrauterine insemination is a fertility procedure that has helped patients throughout Orlando, Florida and in other parts of the country get pregnant when struggling with infertility. It is often used as a first treatment method when couples struggling with infertility decide to seek help. It is less expensive than many other fertility procedures, making it an attractive first option before attempting other, more expensive treatment options such as in vitro fertilization or other assisted reproductive technologies.
Intrauterine insemination is also known as artificial insemination, and involves transferring sperm to the woman's uterus. The procedure is performed hoping the sperm swim into the fallopian tubes to fertilize the egg. In some cases, the woman's natural cycle will be monitored to coordinate the procedure with it. In other cases, ovulation may be stimulated by using fertility medications. In either case, the procedure is performed following the release of the egg to give the procedure its best chance of success. The procedure is recommended for a number of couples, and patients should speak with an Orlando fertility specialist to determine whether the treatment is right for them.
Candidacy for the procedure includes couples in which the male partner struggles with sperm count, weak motility, or abnormal sperm shape and size. Women who have cervical factor infertility in which cervical mucus is too thick, preventing sperm from passing to the fallopian tubes, may be considered candidates as well. Other couples or individuals who may be considered candidates for the procedure include those with unexplained infertility, semen allergies, or when donor sperm are used. On the other side, women who have problems with the fallopian tubes—such as a blockage or other damage—are not considered candidates for the treatment.
Before treatment, patients should consult an Orlando fertility specialist to go over the risks associated with IUI. Risks may include infection from the procedure, cramping following the procedure, multiple pregnancies, and, when fertility medications are used, side effects from the medicine may be present as well.
The procedure costs about $300 to $800 per cycle, and has a success rate of around 10% for those who are under 35 years old. Using fertility medication may improve success rates, and should be discussed thoroughly with a specialist in the area. Women who are over the age of 35 typically have a lower chance of success than those who are under 35.
Learn more about intrauterine insemination in Orlando, Florida.
