IUI — Intrauterine Insemination
A simple, minimally invasive first-line fertility treatment for couples seeking natural conception with a gentle medical assist.
IUI places carefully washed, concentrated sperm directly into the uterus around ovulation — increasing the chances of fertilisation. It is quick, painless, low-cost, and often the first step before considering IVF.
How does IUI work?
After tracking ovulation (sometimes with mild stimulation), a thin catheter is used to deposit prepared sperm into the uterine cavity. The procedure takes minutes and requires no sedation or recovery time.
Who is IUI for?
- Mild male-factor infertility
- Unexplained infertility
- Cervical-mucus issues
- Couples using donor sperm
- Mild endometriosis
- Same-sex couples or single mothers by choice
IUI vs IVF — Quick Comparison
| Factor | IUI | IVF |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Minimal — outpatient | Moderate — sedation for retrieval |
| Cost | Affordable | Higher (with higher success) |
| Cycle Duration | 2–3 weeks | 4–6 weeks |
| Success per cycle | 10–20% | 55–85% (age dependent) |
| Best for | Mild fertility issues | Severe or complex cases |
The IUI Process
- 1
Fertility Assessment
Hormonal tests, semen analysis, and uterine evaluation.
- 2
Mild Stimulation (optional)
Tablets or low-dose injections to support ovulation.
- 3
Insemination
Painless 5–10 minute office procedure around ovulation.
- 4
Two-Week Wait
Light routine, no bed-rest required.
- 5
Pregnancy Test
Blood test confirms result.
What to expect
- Brief, painless procedure
- Resume normal activities same day
- No anaesthesia required
- Often 3–4 cycles tried before considering IVF
Success Factors
Female age under 35, healthy fallopian tubes, and adequate sperm count all improve outcomes. Most pregnancies occur within the first 3 cycles.
Take the next step toward parenthood
Speak to our IVF coordinator instantly — same-day appointments available.