Assisted Reproductive Technology
IUI is a simple, minimally invasive procedure that places concentrated sperm directly into the uterus at the optimal moment of ovulation — giving conception a meaningful boost without the complexity of IVF.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility procedure in which washed, concentrated sperm is placed directly inside the uterus to reduce the distance sperm must travel to reach the egg. Timing is carefully coordinated with ovulation — either natural or triggered with medication.
IUI is typically the first treatment recommended after a diagnostic workup, particularly for couples with mild male factor, cervical mucus issues, ovulation dysfunction, or unexplained infertility.
IUI is often recommended for:
Your physician reviews semen analysis results, confirms at least one open fallopian tube, and assesses ovarian reserve. A natural or medicated cycle is selected based on your specific situation.
Ultrasound monitoring tracks follicle development. In stimulated cycles, low-dose oral or injectable medications encourage 1–2 follicles to mature. Blood tests and ultrasounds confirm timing.
When a follicle reaches optimal size, a trigger injection (hCG or Lupron) is administered to time ovulation precisely. Insemination is scheduled approximately 36 hours later.
A sperm sample is processed in the laboratory to concentrate motile sperm and remove non-motile cells and seminal fluid — a process that typically takes 30–60 minutes.
The prepared sperm is loaded into a small catheter and gently placed directly into the uterine cavity. The procedure is brief (5–10 minutes), mildly uncomfortable at most, and requires no anesthesia.
A blood pregnancy test is performed approximately 14 days after insemination. Your care team is available throughout this period to answer questions and provide support.
Simple, gentle, and precisely timed.
Most physicians recommend 3–6 IUI cycles for appropriate candidates before considering IVF — though this varies based on age, diagnosis, and response. Dr. Lin and Dr. Liu will advise the right timeline for your situation.
Yes. IUI with donor sperm is a common option for single individuals, same-sex female couples, or couples with severe male factor infertility. Our coordinators assist with donor selection through licensed cryobanks.
Per-cycle success rates typically range from 10–20%, varying by age, diagnosis, and whether medication is used. Cumulative success across multiple cycles is higher. Your physician will provide individualized estimates.
Coverage varies by plan. IUI is often one of the first fertility treatments covered when infertility benefits exist. Our team can help verify your specific benefits before your first cycle.
Our physicians will evaluate whether IUI is the right first step for you — or guide you toward the option most likely to succeed.