Intrauterine insemination
Intrauterine Insemination
Intrauterine insemination (pronunciation: /ˌɪntrəˈjuːtəriːn ˌɪnsɪˈmɪneɪʃən/), often abbreviated as IUI, is a type of artificial insemination that involves placing sperm inside a woman's uterus to facilitate fertilization. The goal of IUI is to increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes and subsequently increase the chance of fertilization.
Etymology
The term "intrauterine insemination" is derived from Latin, with "intra-" meaning "within", "uterus" meaning "womb", and "insemination" meaning "to sow", in reference to the sowing of seeds.
Procedure
IUI can be coordinated with your natural cycle or with fertility medications. A semen sample will either be produced at home or in the clinic through masturbation. The sperm is then washed and concentrated. Concentration of healthy sperm can increase the likelihood of successful fertilization.
Related Terms
- Artificial insemination: A procedure for treating infertility that involves direct insertion of sperm into a woman's uterus or cervix.
- Fertility: The natural capability to produce offspring.
- Sperm: The male reproductive cell.
- Uterus: The organ in the lower body of a woman where offspring are conceived and in which they gestate before birth.
Risks and Complications
While IUI is a less invasive and less expensive option, pregnancy rates from IUI are lower than those from IVF. The risks of IUI are minimal — there's a very small chance of infection, and a very small chance of multiple pregnancies.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Intrauterine insemination
- Wikipedia's article - Intrauterine insemination
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