IUI Treatment in Delhi

Indications for IUI

IUI may be recommended for:

• Unexplained infertility
• Mild male factor infertility (e.g., low sperm count or motility)
• Cervical factor infertility (e.g., cervical mucus issues)
• Mild endometriosis
• Use of donor sperm
• Ovulatory disorders (in conjunction with ovulation-inducing medications)

Pre-Treatment Evaluation

Before starting IUI, several evaluations and tests may be conducted:

• Semen Analysis: To assess the quantity and quality of the sperm.
• Ovulation Monitoring: Tracking ovulation through methods like blood tests, ultrasound, or ovulation predictor kits.
• Tubal Patency Test: Ensuring that the fallopian tubes are open and not blocked (e.g., through hysterosalpingography).
• Uterine Evaluation: Assessing the uterine cavity for abnormalities.

Steps of the IUI Process

1. Ovarian Stimulation (Optional)
   • Some women may receive medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Common medications include:
     • Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid): Oral medication taken early in the menstrual cycle.
     • Letrozole (Femara): Another oral medication that can be used to stimulate ovulation.
     • Gonadotropins: Injectable hormones that directly stimulate the ovaries.
2. Monitoring
   • Frequent monitoring of ovarian response through blood tests and transvaginal ultrasounds to track follicle development and determine the optimal time for insemination.
3. Triggering Ovulation
   • Once the follicles are mature, an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or another trigger shot is given to induce ovulation.
4. Semen Collection and Preparation
   • A semen sample is collected from the male partner or a sperm donor. The sample is then “washed” to concentrate the sperm and remove seminal fluid and other components.
5. Insemination Procedure
   • The prepared sperm is placed into a thin, flexible catheter.
   • The catheter is inserted through the cervix into the uterus, and the sperm is injected directly into the uterine cavity.
   • The procedure is usually quick, painless, and performed in a doctor’s office.

Post-Procedure Care

• After the procedure, the patient may be advised to rest for a short period.
• Normal activities can typically be resumed shortly after the procedure.

Follow-Up

• A pregnancy test is usually performed about two weeks after the IUI procedure to determine if it was successful.

Success Rates

• Success rates for IUI can vary based on several factors, including the underlying cause of infertility, age, and whether fertility medications were used.
• On average, success rates range from 10% to 20% per cycle for women under 35. The rates decrease with age and other factors.

Risks and Considerations

• Multiple Pregnancies: The use of ovulation-inducing medications can increase the risk of multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets).
• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): Rare but can occur when the ovaries are overly stimulated.
• Infection or Spotting: Rare, mild side effects may include infection or light spotting.

Summary

IUI is a relatively simple and less invasive fertility treatment that can be an effective option for certain types of infertility. It involves the direct placement of prepared sperm into the uterus, often combined with ovulation-inducing medications. Success depends on various factors, and a fertility specialist can help determine if IUI is the appropriate treatment.