What Happens During IUI? A Patient-Friendly Guide to Intrauterine Insemination

When trying to conceive feels out of reach, assisted reproductive technology like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) may offer a gentle yet effective solution. IUI is often one of the first fertility treatment options recommended due to its simplicity, safety, and affordability. But what exactly happens during IUI? Here’s what you need to know explained clearly and compassionately for hopeful parents like you.

A Gentle Push Towards Pregnancy

In a natural conception, sperm must travel a long and challenging path through the cervix and uterus to meet the egg. With IUI, doctors give the best sperm a head start by placing them directly into your uterus at the most fertile time when ovulation occurs. This significantly increases the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes, enhancing the chance of fertilisation, especially for couples dealing with mild male-factor infertility, unexplained infertility, or ovulation issues.

The Role of “Sperm Washing”

Not all sperm are created equal and not all semen components help with conception. Before insemination, your partner’s (or donor’s) sperm is “washed” in the lab. This process separates out the healthiest, most active sperm from the seminal fluid, which could irritate the uterus if left unfiltered. This cleaned, concentrated sperm sample is then ready for insemination — a safer and more effective approach that boosts success rates while minimising discomfort.

Perfect Timing Is Everything

One of the most important factors in IUI success is timing. To give the sperm the best chance of meeting the egg, IUI is performed just before or during ovulation when the egg is freshly released and ready to be fertilised.

At AlphaSpecialists.sg, your cycle will be carefully tracked using ultrasound scans and blood tests to detect hormonal changes and follicle development. In some cases, a “trigger shot” (hCG injection) may be used to prompt ovulation precisely. This precision timing ensures that sperm and egg meet at the optimal moment, giving you the best possible chance of conception.

A Quick, Low-Stress Procedure

The IUI procedure itself is simple and nearly painless — it takes 5 to 10 minutes and feels much like a Pap smear. A fine, flexible catheter is gently inserted through the cervix, and the prepared sperm is placed high in the uterus.

There’s no need for sedation or recovery time. After a brief rest (about 10–15 minutes), most patients return to normal activities the same day. Many describe the process as straightforward and reassuringly routine.

Should You Consider Ovulation-Stimulating Medication?

Depending on your fertility history, IUI can be performed in a natural menstrual cycle or combined with ovulation-stimulating medications like Clomid or letrozole. These medications help your ovaries produce more than one mature egg, slightly improving your chances of conception.

This approach is particularly useful for those with irregular ovulation or unexplained infertility. However, our specialists will guide you through the best protocol for your individual situation.

Who Is IUI Best Suited For?

IUI is a great option for individuals or couples experiencing:

• Mild male-factor infertility (e.g. low sperm motility or count)
• Unexplained infertility
• Irregular ovulation (such as with PCOS)
• Cervical factor infertility
• Same-sex female couples or single women using donor sperm

It’s often chosen as a first-line fertility treatment before exploring more complex procedures like IVF.

What Are the Success Rates?

The success of IUI depends on several factors — primarily age, fertility diagnosis, and whether ovulation medication is used.
On average:

• Women under 35 have a 10–20% chance of pregnancy per IUI cycle
• Cumulative success over 3–6 cycles increases considerably, up to 60–70% in younger women

While IUI is not a guaranteed solution, many find success within a few cycles — especially when paired with personalised monitoring and care.

Are There Any Risks?

IUI is considered a very safe procedure. However, some mild side effects may include:

• Light cramping or spotting after the procedure
• A small risk of infection (very rare)
• If fertility drugs are used: the chance of multiple pregnancies (e.g. twins), though this is typically managed through careful monitoring

Your fertility team will take every precaution to ensure your safety and well-being throughout the process.

Your First Step Toward Parenthood

Choosing IUI is not just a medical decision — it’s an emotional step toward the family you’ve been dreaming of. At AlphaSpecialists.sg, we offer more than just treatment. We provide education, support, and a personalised fertility plan shaped around your goals and your body.

Our dedicated fertility team will work closely with you to understand your cycle, track your ovulation, and prepare everything you need for a smooth and hopeful IUI experience.