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IUI

A simple procedure that can increase your chances of conception.

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What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a treatment that involves inserting partner or donor sperm directly into the uterus during the most fertile time in your cycle. This increases the chance that the sperm will fertilize the egg and result in pregnancy. IUI can be an initial step toward parenthood if your doctor feels it's right for you based on your unique needs and goals.

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"Nurit Winkler is a very knowledgeable doctor. She stands out by being empathetic and caring."

IUI Patient Via FertilityIQ

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How IUI works

IUI is all about timing. Your doctor will work with you to monitor your cycle and ovulation for up to a month, which may include ultrasounds, home ovulation predictor kits, and potentially bloodwork. Patients may also go on hormonal medications during that month to help with egg production. Your IUI procedure will be scheduled based on your optimal time for conception.

Sperm Prep: You and your doctor will discuss beforehand whether you’ll be using fresh or frozen sperm. That sperm will then be “washed,” meaning the best-quality sperm will be isolated for fertilization.

The procedure takes about twenty minutes total and does not require sedation or anesthesia. A tiny tube containing the prepared sperm is inserted into the vaginal canal, through the cervix, and into the uterus. After the sperm is in place, the catheter is removed and you’ll be asked to stay laying down for about five minutes before leaving the clinic. You might experience some slight discomfort or cramping while the sperm is being placed, but the procedure is typically not painful. Afterward you may experience spotting for a couple days.

You’ll take a pregnancy test two weeks after your IUI procedure. If you are pregnant, we’ll monitor you closely to ensure the pregnancy is progressing appropriately. We know it can be emotionally challenging if the process isn’t successful the first time; however, it’s not uncommon to repeat IUI three or four times before finally conceiving. If it's not successful, your doctor may meet with you to discuss next steps. We are here to support you every step of the way.

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Is IUI right for me?

IUI is an option for:

  • Couples experiencing unexplained infertility, which is when you've been trying to conceive without success for six months or up to one year, depending on your age, and fertility testing hasn't led to a definitive cause.
  • Single women using donor sperm who don’t have needs that require IVF
  • Lesbian couples and any person assigned female at birth who needs donor sperm and plans to carry the pregnancy
  • Mild male infertility issues
  • Those experiencing ovulatory issues
  • Other issues depending on your unique situation
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"I believe Dr. Kalan wants me to get pregnant as badly as I want to be pregnant, and that is important to me."

IUI Patient Via FertilityIQ

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Paying for IUI

Though coverage for fertility care varies widely by insurance plan, the good news is that you have options. We are committed to guiding you through your insurance benefits, out-of-pocket expenses, and other financing options every step of the way. With Los Angeles Reproductive Center you will never be in the dark about cost.

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You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers.

Most patients experience little to no pain with IUI. The discomfort it can cause is similar to a pap smear and there might be some mild cramping after the procedure. You and your doctor can discuss taking an over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen, to manage discomfort.

IUI is a low-risk procedure. If you take an oral medication to enhance ovulation such as letrozole or clomiphene, there is a slightly higher chance of twins than with natural conception or single embryo transfer IVF.

IUI is one of the most affordable services available to fertility patients. The estimated cost of an IUI at Los Angeles Reproductive Center ranges from $1,750- $2,425.

IUI with Clomid can increase success rates up to 3-5 times over the baseline. However, it’s important to keep in mind that many patients who are trying to conceive have 1-2% chance of success each month. The success of IUI varies widely from patient to patient and is highly dependent on your medical history and personal situation. It’s important to talk to your doctor about whether IUI is right for you.