893 893 5353
What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?
IUI, or Intrauterine Insemination, is a simple fertility treatment that helps couples who are having difficulty having a baby naturally.
In this process, the doctor takes healthy sperm (from the husband or a donor), cleans and prepares it, and then places it directly inside the woman’s uterus. By doing this, the sperm gets a shorter and easier path to reach the egg, which increases the chances of pregnancy.
It is safe, painless for most women, and often one of the first treatments suggested for couples who are struggling to conceive.
Why is IUI Treatment Important for Couples?
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), IUI is especially useful in cases of unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, and cervical problems.
IUI is important because it gives couples an extra chance to get pregnant when it’s not happening naturally.
Sometimes sperm find it hard to reach the egg because of low sperm count, weak movement, or issues in the woman’s body. With IUI, doctors place the sperm directly inside the uterus (closer to the egg), so the chances of meeting and fertilising are much higher.
For couples who have been trying for years, IUI brings hope without being too complex or heavy on cost.
Who Should Consider IUI?
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a good option for couples who are finding it hard to get pregnant naturally but don’t need very advanced treatments like IVF.
Doctors usually suggest IUI in these situations:
- Age of the Female Partner : Age is a crucial factor to consider when recommending a patient for IUI treatment. Top fertility experts consider IUI as a first-line treatment for age-related infertility because fertility medications are used to stimulate egg production before the treatment.
- Sexual Disorders : IUI is considered to be the right treatment option for couples in which the male partner is diagnosed with certain infertility-related problems, including low sperm count, problems with the shape and movement of sperm, or erectile dysfunction.
- Unexplained Infertility : When doctors can’t find a clear reason why pregnancy isn’t happening.
- Cervical Issues : When the woman’s cervical mucus (fluid in the uterus opening) makes it harder for sperm to reach the egg.
- Ovulation Problems : when the woman doesn’t release eggs regularly, and medicines are used to help.
- Use of Donor Sperm : For couples where the male partner cannot provide sperm, or in cases of single women or same-sex couples.
Expert Fertility Doctor Advice : IUI is for couples who need a little medical help to boost their chances of pregnancy, but don’t yet require complicated procedures. It is safe, quick, and usually painless. It’s often the first treatment suggested because it is less expensive and less complicated than IVF.
Step-by-Step IUI Procedure
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a simple fertility treatment, and the process is not as scary as it may sound. Here’s IUI procedure step-by-step:
Step 1 :
Treatment and Counseling
IUI treatment procedure may be cumbersome physically and emotionally for a couple. Counselling with fertility experts helps couples understand the treatment process.
Step 2 :
Ovulation Check
The doctor checks when the woman’s body is releasing an egg (ovulation). Sometimes, medicines are administered to help the egg develop and mature for release at the right time. The stimulation is done till day 6 or as deemed appropriate by the specialist.
Step 3 :
Monitoring of the Ovulation Cycle
Stimulation leads to the development of the follicles, which need to be monitored to check for growth and size from day 9 to day 12 or 13. The interval of the scans is decided by the specialist as per the requirement.
Step 4 :
Sperm Collection & Processing
The male partner gives a semen sample. If donor sperm is used, it is taken from a sperm bank. The sperm is “washed” in the lab to remove weak sperm and keep only the healthiest, fastest ones.
Step 5 :
Placing Sperm in the Uterus
Using a thin, soft tube, the doctor gently places the healthy sperm directly inside the woman’s uterus. This gives the sperm a shorter and easier path to meet the egg. The whole process is painless; however, some women might feel a mild pain.
Step 6 :
Rest and Wait
The woman may rest for a short while after the procedure, then she can go home the same day. A pregnancy test is done about 2 weeks later to check if the treatment worked.
IUI Process Explained Simply by Crysta IVF
What is the IUI Success Rate in India and What Factors Affect It?
Many couples ask: How successful is the IUI treatment procedure? The truth is, IUI can work well, but the success rate depends on different factors.
According to WebMD, on average, the IUI success rate is around 10–20% per cycle. This means out of 100 couples trying IUI, about 10–20 may get pregnant in one cycle. Some couples may need a few cycles to see results.
Factors That Affect IUI Success Rate in India:
- Age of the Woman: Younger women (below 35) usually have higher chances of success compared to women above 35.
- Quality of Sperm: Healthy sperm with good movement and count improve the chances of fertilisation.
- Ovulation Health: If the woman ovulates regularly or responds well to fertility medicines, success rates are higher.
- Underlying Health Issues: Conditions like blocked fallopian tubes, severe male infertility, or hormonal imbalances can lower the chances of IUI working.
- Number of IUI Cycles: Success often improves after multiple attempts. Many couples achieve pregnancy within 3–4 IUI cycles.
- Choice of Clinic: The choice of clinic highly influences the success rate of IUI treatment, as the clinic must be equipped with advanced technology and highly experienced fertility experts for better success.
What is the IUI Treatment Cost in India?
Average Cost: On average, The cost of IUI treatment in India is usually between ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 for one cycle.
This cost generally includes the cost of a doctor’s consultation, scans and tests, sperm washing and cleaning.
However, the IUI treatment cost depends on certain factors such as:
- City and clinic location : IUI Costs are higher in metro cities compared to smaller towns.
- Doctor’s expertise : Experienced fertility specialists may charge more.
- Number of cycles needed : More cycles mean a higher overall cost.
- Fertility medicines : If medicines are required to stimulate ovulation, the cost increases.
- Tests and scans : Extra blood tests or ultrasounds may add to the cost.
- Use of donor sperm : Using donor sperm comes with additional charges.
At Crysta IVF, we don’t want cost to stop your dream of becoming parents. That’s why we offer:
- 0% EMI plans (pay in small monthly instalments)
- Flexible financing for treatments and medicines
- Guidance on insurance coverage
Why Choose Crysta IVF for Your Fertility Journey?
20+ Years Experienced Doctors
Crysta IVF has highly experienced doctors who provide accurate treatment according to your problem.
High Success Rate
Crysta IVF brought smiles to 20,000+ of couples’ faces creating a high success rate for conceiving a child.
Personalised Care
Every patient's journey at Crysta IVF is customised to meet their specific needs and circumstances with compassion and care.
Advanced ART Labs
With the use of modern labs and cutting-edge technology, Crysta IVF provides the highest quality of reproductive care.
Transparent Treatment Pricing
Crysta IVF uses a transparent pricing system to improve patient experience and keep patients financially secure.
Trustworthy and Safe
There are no long-term risks or complications associated with the IVF process. Along with its efficacy, Crysta IVF keeps your identity secure.
What are the Benefits vs Risks of IUI Treatment for Infertility?
IUI is one of the most common fertility treatments. Like any medical procedure, it comes with both advantages and a few possible risks.
Benefits of IUI
- Simple and quick procedure that takes only a few minutes
- Usually painless, no surgery required
- Fertilisation still happens naturally inside the woman’s body
- Healthiest sperm are placed closer to the egg, improving chances of fertilisation
- More affordable compared to IVF, making it a good first option
Risks of IUI
- May cause mild cramping or discomfort during the procedure
- Slight risk of infection (very rare)
- If fertility medicines are used, there is a small risk of multiple pregnancy (twins or more)
- Not effective in cases of severe male infertility or blocked fallopian tubes
- May need multiple cycles before success, which can feel stressful
What Precautions Should You Take After IUI Treatment for Better Results?
After an IUI, many couples wonder what they should or should not do. The truth is, IUI is a simple and safe procedure, and you don’t need strict bed rest. But following a few precautions can improve your comfort and chances of success:
Take it Easy: Resting for a few hours after the procedure is enough. You can continue daily activities, but avoid heavy exercise or lifting weights for a few days.
Eat Healthy: You must have a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein to support your body and avoid junk food, smoking, and alcohol.
Stay Hydrated: Always drink enough water to keep your body active and healthy.
Avoid Stress: During an IUI procedure, taking a lot of stress can affect hormones. Try relaxation methods like meditation, walking, or light yoga.
Take Prescribed Medicines: If your doctor has given fertility medicines or supplements, take them regularly as advised.
Watch for Symptoms: During the IUI process, mild cramps or spotting can happen, but if you notice heavy bleeding, fever, or severe pain, call your doctor right away.
Fertility Expert Advice: “After IUI, live a normal and healthy lifestyle. No strict bed rest is needed, but taking care of your body and mind can improve your chances of pregnancy.”
Key Difference Between IUI vs IVF vs ICSI
Couples often get confused between IUI, IVF, and ICSI when exploring fertility options. While all three aim to help with pregnancy, they differ in process, cost, and success rates. Here’s a simple comparison to understand the differences better.
| Feature | IUI | IVF | ICSI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Procedure | Healthy sperm are placed directly into the woman’s uterus to help it meet the egg naturally. | Eggs are collected from the woman, fertilised with sperm in a lab, and then an embryo is placed back in the uterus. | A single healthy sperm is directly injected into an egg in the lab, and the embryo is placed in the uterus. |
| Suitable For | Couples with unexplained infertility, mild male infertility, cervical issues, or ovulation problems. | Couples with blocked fallopian tubes, severe infertility, or after failed IUI attempts. | Couples with very low sperm count, poor sperm movement, or previous failed IVF cycles. |
| Invasiveness | Simple, quick, and almost painless | More complex, involves injections, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer | Most advanced, involves IVF steps plus sperm injection under a microscope |
| Cost in India | ₹10,000 – ₹20,000 per cycle | ₹1.2 – ₹3 lakhs per cycle | ₹2 – ₹3 lakhs per cycle |
| Success Rate | 10–20% per cycle | 40–50% per cycle (depends on age & health) | 40–60% per cycle (higher for severe male infertility cases) |
IUI = Simple, quick, and affordable.
IVF = More advanced, takes longer, higher success.
ICSI = Most advanced, designed for severe male infertility.
Different Services Offered at Crysta IVF
Different Services Offered at Crysta IVF
Myths around IUI
A. How is IUI different from IVF?
Fact: In IUI, healthy sperm are placed directly into the uterus to meet the egg naturally. In IVF, eggs are taken out, fertilised with sperm in a lab, and then the embryo is placed back in the uterus.
B. How many cycles of IUI are usually needed?
Fact: Most couples need 3- 4 IUI cycles to improve their chances of pregnancy, though some may succeed in the first cycle.
C. Can IUI be done at home?
Fact: No, IUI cannot be done at home. IUI must be done in a fertility clinic by a trained doctor because it requires lab work (sperm washing) and a medical procedure.
D. Is IUI safe?
Fact: Yes. IUI is safe, quick, and has very few risks. Rarely, a mild infection or multiple pregnancy may occur.
E. Is it painful to do IUI?
Fact: No, IUI is not painful. However, some women may feel mild cramping, like period pain, for a short time.
F. Are IUI babies normal?
Fact: Yes. IUI babies are completely normal and healthy, just like naturally conceived babies.
G. How many days do I need to take rest after IUI?
Fact: You can go home the same day and continue normal activities. No strict bed rest is needed after IUI.
H. How soon can I take a pregnancy test after IUI?
Fact: You should take a pregnancy test about 14 days after IUI to get accurate results.