Treatment guide
Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
Prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation.
Written and reviewed by the MyBabyBridge editorial team · Last reviewed · 3 sources · General information, not medical advice. Our editorial standards
What it is
IUI is a far simpler and cheaper treatment than IVF. A semen sample is washed and concentrated in the laboratory, and the prepared sperm is placed into the uterus through a thin catheter at the time of ovulation, shortening the journey and bypassing the cervix. It is often combined with oral or injectable medication to encourage ovulation.
Who it is usually for
Frequently a first treatment for unexplained infertility, mild male-factor infertility, ovulatory problems, cervical factor, or for single people and same-sex female couples using donor sperm. It requires at least one open fallopian tube.
Unfamiliar term? See the fertility glossary.
What happens, step by step
- Step 1
Cycle monitoring
Ovulation is tracked with home tests, bloodwork, or ultrasound, sometimes with medication to stimulate follicle development.
- Step 2
Trigger or natural surge
Insemination is timed to a natural LH surge or to a trigger injection.
- Step 3
Sperm preparation
The sample is washed to concentrate motile sperm and remove seminal fluid, which would otherwise cause cramping.
- Step 4
Insemination
A brief, usually painless office procedure with no sedation. Most people return to normal activity immediately.
Time and cost
How long it takes
A single IUI cycle follows one menstrual cycle, roughly two to four weeks from the start of monitoring to the pregnancy test.
What it typically costs
Considerably less per cycle than IVF, which makes it a common first step even though its per-cycle success rate is lower. The total depends on medication, how much monitoring the cycle needs, sperm preparation, and donor sperm if used.
Prices vary widely by clinic and region. Get an itemised estimate in writing — see the IVF cost guide.
Risks and limits
- Multiple pregnancy when stimulation medication is used
- Mild cramping or spotting after the procedure
- Infection, which is rare
- Spending several cycles and several months on a treatment with a lower per-cycle chance
What to ask your clinic
- How many IUI cycles do you recommend before moving to IVF, and why?
- Will this cycle be medicated, and what does that change?
- What is the total cost per cycle including monitoring, medication, and sperm preparation?
- What post-wash count are we working with?
- Have my tubes been confirmed open?
Ask for the answers in writing, alongside itemised costs.
Sources
- Infertility — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Practice Guidance and Committee Opinions — American Society for Reproductive Medicine
- Women's Health Frequently Asked Questions — American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Thinking about Intrauterine insemination (IUI)?
Tell us where you are. We will review it and reply by email with general next-step information.