Why is the timing for IUI important

It is important for Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) to be carried out when ovulating such that the egg is in the fallopian tube. As the egg is capable of fertilization for only 12 to 24 hours, the sperm must be inseminated close to the time of ovulation.

How do you know when you are ovulating?

Two methods:

1.     Ovulation kit

An ovulation kit detects luteinizing hormone (LH). Increasing levels of LH prompt the release of the egg. IUI should be done the next day when the ovulation kit shows positive LH levels in the urine.

2.     Artificial trigger ovulation

Ovulation can be artificially triggered using medication called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to release the egg. Ultrasound is used to visualise the eggs in the ovaries. Once the egg(s) is/are mature enough to be released, hCG is injected into the woman’s body to artificially trigger the release of the egg(s). IUI should ideally be done about 36 hours after the hCG injection.