IUI

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Intrauterine Insemination at NYU Langone Fertility Center

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fairly straightforward procedure that aids conception by directing sperm to the right place at the right time. IUI can be a nice first step for someone that wants to keep treatment more natural or less invasive.

The world-class team at NYU Langone Fertility Center (NYLFC) has decades of experience performing IUIs. Our entire staff is here to support you throughout the treatment process should we determine IUI is the most effective course of action to achieve your family-building goals.

What Is Intrauterine Insemination?
During the IUI process, a fertility specialist places a thin tube called a catheter through the cervix. Then, a carefully prepared sperm sample is injected directly through the catheter into the uterus. IUI increases the chances of becoming pregnant by injecting an optimal sperm sample directly into the uterus at a time when the patient is most fertile. IUI is one of the least invasive fertility treatment options. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for IUI?
Our reproductive endocrinologists evaluate each patient and formulate personalized treatment plans. 

We may recommend IUI for couples or individuals who: 

  • Are unable to have appropriately timed intercourse due to travel distances (such as military deployment) or in cases of sexual or ejaculatory dysfunction
  • Have unexplained infertility or mild male factor infertility
  • Have conditions that impact fertility, such as polycystic ovulatory syndrome (PCOS)
  • Are using donor sperm

IUI is typically not recommended for those with:

  • A history of pelvic infections
  • Severe disease of the fallopian tubes
  • Moderate to severe endometriosis
  • Severe male factor infertility

The IUI Process at NYULFC

Here is a step-by-step guide to the IUI process at NYULFC:

  1. We work with our patients to determine whether IUI is suitable for them. Then, our nurses will discuss timelines and review the process once the patient starts their menstrual cycle. The goal is to determine when the patient ovulates and perform the IUI at that time. The patient may need to use medications to help time or trigger ovulation depending on whether or not they experience regular ovulation.
  2. Our team will monitor the patient to observe follicle growth and maturation via bloodwork and vaginal ultrasounds.
  3. If the patient is using ovulatory medications, they'll receive a trigger injection to induce ovulation once their ovarian follicles reach maturity. The next day, we'll perform the IUI at our clinic.
  4. If the patient is not using ovulatory medications, we'll observe their natural follicle growth and perform the IUI when the ovarian follicles are estimated to have reached maturity.
  5. Two weeks following the IUI, the patient will take an at-home pregnancy test and contact the office with the results to determine next steps.

IUI Frequently Asked Questions

  • During IUI, sperm is injected directly into the uterus via a thin catheter. Alternatively, IVF involves retrieving eggs from the ovaries and combining them with sperm outside of the body for fertilization. IUI is less invasive and expensive than IVF, but it has a lower success rate. Our team will create a personalized treatment plan that best fits you and your family’s needs.

  • Generally, the IUI procedure only takes a few minutes, and patients experience very little pain. Most compare the sensation to that of a pap smear. Some individuals may experience mild discomfort when the catheter is inserted past the cervix, but this is temporary and should subside by the end of the procedure. Side effects include mild spotting or cramping immediately following the procedure.

  • The best time for an IUI is during ovulation when the patient is most fertile. Our team will monitor your hormone levels to determine when the timing is optimal for you. If a patient is undergoing IUI in conjunction with medication, we'll perform the procedure approximately 34-36 hours after the trigger injection.

  • Some insurance providers cover IUI. Our Prior Authorization team will review each patient's individual insurance coverage.

    Learn more about pricing, coverage, and financing options at NYULFC.

Choose NYU Langone Fertility Center for IUI in New York City

At NYU Langone Fertility Center, we're dedicated to providing our patients with exceptional clinical care to help them build their families. If you have any questions or want to learn more about IUI and if it's right for you, contact us today.

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