Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that many individuals and couples turn to as a first step in assisted reproduction. It’s a relatively straightforward process, but having the right team by your side makes all the difference.
If you’re exploring IUI treatment near you, MCRM Fertility is here with what to know about how it works, who it helps, and why working with the right fertility team matters.
Understanding IUI and Who It Can Help
Intrauterine insemination, or IUI, is a minimally invasive procedure that involves placing a specially prepared sperm sample directly into the uterus during the most fertile point in a cycle. It’s a simple, straightforward procedure that can help in many situations, such as:
For LGBTQ+ couples and single parents by choice, IUI can be a reliable, science-backed way to bring family plans closer. It’s also an option for those who experience sexual dysfunction and prefer to take intimacy pressure out of the equation.
In each case, the goal stays the same: give sperm its best possible chance to meet an egg.
Step by Step of the IUI Process
First, a board-certified fertility specialist will review your cycle and decide if injectable fertility medication is recommended.
We follow a protocol known as controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH). This involves administering a synthetic version of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to help the ovaries produce mature eggs. COH also promotes the development of multiple follicles, which may help improve the chances of success with IUI. Monitoring will closely follow the progress of the eggs.
Ultrasound scans track follicle growth, and blood tests can help confirm hormone levels are on target. When follicles (sacs that house your eggs) are ready, an hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) trigger injection helps prompt ovulation, and your IUI is scheduled about a day and a half later.
In the lab, fresh sperm from a partner or thawed donor sperm is concentrated so the healthiest, most active sperm can be used for the procedure. A thin, flexible catheter gently delivers the specially prepared sample into the uterus. The process is quick, with little discomfort, and most patients are able to continue their day without interruption.
IUI Treatment at Our Fertility Center near Tulsa, OK
Timing is everything with IUI, which is why our Tulsa area fertility center uses ultrasound monitoring from the start of your cycle through ovulation. This approach ensures medication doses are adjusted as needed and helps your treatment stay on track.
Behind the scenes, an experienced embryology and andrology team handles sperm evaluation and preparation with meticulous care. Advanced semen analysis, including DNA fragmentation testing, can reveal important details that improve planning and outcomes. When paired with the skill of board-certified endocrinologists, it gives each cycle the strongest foundation possible.
At MCRM Fertility, patients of all backgrounds—including LGBTQ+ individuals and single parents—receive individualized care and clear guidance.
IUI is a fertility treatment often used when natural conception could use a little extra help. The process is quick, minimally invasive, and for many, a promising step toward growing their family.
Here’s how it typically works:
To take the first step, you can schedule a consultation with a member of our care team.
Choosing to undergo IUI treatment may be beneficial for individuals experiencing specific fertility concerns. This option is often recommended for:
Selecting a fertility center that prioritizes precision and care makes a significant difference in outcomes. Our nearby fertility specialists are dedicated to both medical excellence and patient well-being, creating an environment where hopeful parents feel supported every step of the way.
IUI and IVF are both fertility treatments, but they work differently. IUI places sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation, allowing fertilization to happen naturally. Since it involves minimal medication and fewer procedures, many start with IUI before considering other options.
IVF is a more advanced treatment that retrieves eggs, fertilizes them in a lab, and transfers an embryo into the uterus. It offers greater control, and requires more monitoring, medications, and procedures.
Choosing between IUI and IVF depends on individual needs and what feels right. A fertility specialist can help determine the best approach based on health history and personal goals.
Taking the next step toward fertility care starts with a conversation. MCRM Fertility welcomes questions, offering guidance tailored to each individual’s journey. Reach out today to connect with experienced specialists ready to provide support, insight, and leading reproductive care.
