IUI is different to IVF, in that fertilisation doesn't take place outside the body.
A sample of the best quality sperm are collected and passed directly into the womb via a thin catheter, to give the best chance of natural conception.
It is normally done during the woman's ovulation or when she is taking stimulating hormones. It is a much simpler process than IVF, and usually cheaper, so it may be an option for couples who have a smaller budget.
Who can have IUI?
IUI is suitable for men and women who have healthy sperm and eggs but may suffer with the following problems:
- Cervical hostility (where the cervix is acting as a barrier to sperm) and an incompatible post-coital test.
- Reproductive immunity - antibodies to sperm, unfavourable vaginal secretions.
- Male subfertility (where some of his sperm are poor quality and the rest are healthy. IUI can root out the healthy ones for fertilisation).
- Partial male ejaculation or no ejaculation (so the sperm cannot travel to the womb). Men with spinal cord injuries can sometimes not ejaculate.
In these cases, passing sperm directly into the womb can greatly increase the chance of pregnancy. If the man is unable to produce a sample, sperm can be removed directly from his testicles.
For couples with these conditions, IUI is often tried first, prior to any IVF.
