IUI Procedure in Indore: Intrauterine Insemination Explained

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a simple, low-cost fertility treatment in which specially washed sperm is placed directly inside the uterus around the time of ovulation. It gives sperm a head start and is often the first assisted treatment couples try. At Asian Navkar Hospital, Indore, IUI is planned only after confirming that at least one fallopian tube is open and that the semen sample is suitable.

Who Is a Good Candidate for IUI?

IUI works best when the basic requirements for natural conception are present but something is making it difficult. It may be suitable for:

• mild male-factor infertility (slightly low count or motility)
• ovulation problems such as PCOS, combined with ovulation induction
• unexplained infertility in younger women
• cervical factors or difficulty with intercourse
• couples using donor sperm through a registered ART bank

IUI is not advised when both tubes are blocked, when sperm counts are very low, in severe endometriosis, or when the woman's age or low ovarian reserve makes IVF the more time-efficient option.

How the IUI Procedure Works

1. Baseline scan and medicines

On day 2–3 of your period, an ultrasound checks the ovaries and lining. Tablets (such as letrozole) or low-dose injections may be prescribed to support ovulation.

2. Follicle monitoring

Ultrasound scans every few days track the growing follicle. This helps avoid over-response and multiple pregnancy.

3. Trigger and timing

When the follicle is mature, a trigger injection may be given. IUI is usually done 24–40 hours later, close to ovulation.

4. Sperm preparation

The male partner gives a fresh semen sample at the hospital. In the laboratory the sperm is washed to remove seminal fluid and concentrate the most active sperm.

5. Insemination

The prepared sperm is placed in the uterus through a thin, soft catheter. It takes a few minutes, feels similar to a Pap smear and does not need anaesthesia.

6. Pregnancy test

A urine or blood pregnancy test is done about two weeks later.

IUI Success: What to Expect

IUI has a lower chance of success per cycle than IVF, but it is simpler and less expensive. Success depends mainly on the woman's age, the cause of infertility, the number of motile sperm after washing, and whether ovulation medicines are used. Most couples are advised to try about three to four well-timed cycles; if pregnancy does not happen, we review the plan and discuss moving to IVF rather than repeating IUI indefinitely.

Risks and Side Effects

• Mild cramping or spotting on the day of the procedure
• Multiple pregnancy if several follicles grow; we monitor scans closely and may cancel a cycle if there are too many follicles
• Infection is rare because the procedure is done under sterile conditions

IUI vs IVF: Which Is Right for You?

IUI places sperm in the uterus and fertilisation happens naturally in the tube. IVF fertilises eggs in the laboratory and transfers an embryo. IUI suits younger couples with open tubes and reasonable sperm counts; IVF suits blocked tubes, low ovarian reserve, older age, severe male factor and repeated IUI failure. Our doctors at Asian Navkar Hospital will recommend the option that gives you the best chance in the least time.

Preparing for IUI

• Start folic acid before trying to conceive
• Avoid smoking and alcohol; both affect egg and sperm quality
• The male partner should avoid ejaculation for 2–5 days before the sample, unless advised otherwise
• Continue normal daily activities after IUI; bed rest is not needed

Why Families Choose Asian Navkar Hospital, Indore

• Fertility, embryology, high-risk obstetrics and a Level 3 NICU in one hospital, so care continues after a positive pregnancy test.
• Senior IVF team with 30+ years of clinical experience, including clinical embryologists.
• Counselling for both partners, transparent written estimates and cashless TPA/insurance desk support where policies allow.

Related Services

• Ovulation Induction in Indore with Follicle Monitoring
• IVF Clinic in Indore
• Fertility Test in Indore
• PCOS Treatment in Indore
• Fertility Centre in Indore

Medical References

• HFEA - IUI
• NHS - Infertility treatment
• WHO - Infertility fact sheet

This page is for general information and does not replace a consultation. Treatment decisions are made only after an in-person evaluation by a qualified doctor at Asian Navkar Hospital, Indore.