Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

What IUI involves

IUI is a relatively simple procedure. Around the time of ovulation, prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus through a thin catheter. According to the NHS, it takes under ten minutes and most people feel little discomfort. Some people have IUI in a natural cycle; others use mild medication to support ovulation, with monitoring scans.

Who it can help

The NHS and HFEA describe IUI as an option for people using donor sperm — including many single women and same-sex female couples with no female fertility problems — couples unable to have vaginal intercourse, and situations where reducing the risk of passing on an infection matters.

Who it may suit less well

ASRM notes IUI is less effective when the male partner has very few or abnormal sperm, or when there is severe fallopian-tube disease, moderate-to-severe endometriosis, or blocked tubes. In those situations IVF, sometimes with ICSI, may be discussed instead.

Success and how many cycles

The NHS reports that more than half of women under 40 conceive within six cycles of IUI, and about half of those who do not succeed in the first six cycles conceive within a further six. Because success per cycle is generally lower than IVF, your clinician can help you decide how many cycles to try before considering other options.