INTRAUTERINE INSEMINATION (IUI)

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a procedure in which sperm sample is washed to concentrate the sperm into several small drops which is then carefully inserted- using a thin, flexible catheter - through the cervix into the cavity of the uterus near the fallopian tubes.

Vaginal ultrasound, rather than the results of a urine ovulation detection kit, is used to determine the exact day that the egg has ovulated (been released from the ovary) to enter the fallopian tubes.

Insemination is more likely to be successful if the egg is waiting in the fallopian tube for the sperm- because after sperm are washed they are likely to be functional for approximately 12-24 hours.

Both donor sperm insemination and IUI are most likely to succeed if:

• The timing of insemination is based on ultrasound evidence of collapse of the    follicle showing ovulation has occurred
• Sperm are processed very carefully
The insemination is performed by a physician (Dr. Brandeis personally performs    all donor sperm inseminations) so the sample is placed accurately near the top of    the uterus.