IUI Treatment in Southern California

At Pacific Reproductive Center, we understand that unexplained infertility is a frustrating and emotionally painful diagnosis for anyone eager to start or grow a family.

Fortunately, some fertility treatments can address a wide variety of reproductive obstacles. For potential parents with unexplained infertility, one of those treatments might be intrauterine insemination (IUI).

IUI has an excellent track record of success even when the exact cause of infertility hasn’t been identified.

To learn more about IUI treatment, contact us today or continue reading below.

What is IUI Treatment?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), also commonly known as artificial insemination, is a fertility treatment involving the introduction of sperm provided by a donor or the potential parent to a mature egg.

IUI is one of the simpler and more affordable fertility treatments available. It is a minimally invasive procedure that most patients find comfortable and non-stressful.

IUI is frequently among the first recommended treatments for patients experiencing unexplained infertility.

When is IUI Used?

Intrauterine insemination is an effective treatment for unexplained infertility, but it has also helped promote successful pregnancies for potential parents experiencing a variety of fertility challenges, including:

• Low sperm count
• Endometriosis
• Hostile cervical environment
• Ovulation-related fertility challenges
• Human seminal plasma hypersensitivity (HSP)

IUI is an excellent option for same-sex couples and single potential parents who require donor sperm.

How Does IUI Work?

Intrauterine insemination involves placing sperm directly into the uterus, timed with ovulation, to increase the chances of fertilization. It bypasses some barriers to conception and can be a less invasive fertility treatment compared to other assisted reproductive technologies.

Here is what you can expect if you are a candidate for IUI treatment in Los Angeles, Orange County, or Riverside:

Fertility Medications

Depending on your unique circumstances, you may or may not need medication to induce the growth of one or more eggs (ovulation induction) to increase your chance of conception.

Common fertility medications include

• Clomid: This oral medication is taken for five days, usually early in your cycle.
• Hormone injection: You may also be prescribed a one-time hormone injection (gonadotropins) to trigger the release of one or more mature eggs.

Injectable prescriptions are typically more powerful than oral medications, so most physicians prefer oral medication first.

Monitoring

In a natural cycle (without fertility medications), your reproductive specialist will time your IUI with your natural ovulation. During a medicated cycle, you may need additional urine ovulation tests, bloodwork, or pelvic ultrasounds to confirm ovulation. All of these tests can be performed at our fertility clinic in California.

Sperm Collection and Processing

The sperm used in intrauterine insemination must first undergo a process called “sperm washing.” The sperm are separated from the rest of the seminal fluid using density gradient centrifugation. Seminal fluid may contain elements that could potentially inhibit fertilization. Sperm washing extracts the unhealthy, low-motility sperm and leaves a high concentration of healthy sperm, increasing your chance of pregnancy.

Insemination Procedure

Insemination itself is a relatively simple process. Once ovulation is confirmed, your doctor will place the washed sperm into a very thin cannula with a syringe at the end. Most patients describe this procedure as causing minimal discomfort and may feel like a Pap smear. The insemination itself takes less than five minutes and does not require anesthesia.

Your doctor may ask you to remain on your back for several minutes immediately following the procedure. However, there are no activity restrictions or bedrest requirements after IUI.

IUI Cycle Timeline

During an IUI cycle, the process typically begins with monitoring your menstrual cycle and tracking ovulation. Once ovulation is detected, usually through the use of ovulation predictor kits or ultrasound monitoring, the IUI procedure is scheduled.

On the day of the procedure, washed sperm is placed directly into the uterus via a thin catheter. Following the IUI, you may be advised to rest briefly before resuming normal activities. Over the following days, you may experience some mild cramping or spotting, which is considered normal.

After undergoing an IUI procedure, you will likely be anxious to find out whether it has resulted in a pregnancy. Bloodwork or a urine pregnancy test should be accurate about 14 days after IUI is completed.

Are There Any IUI Side Effects?

While IUI is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience mild side effects. These can include:

• Mild cramping or discomfort during or after the procedure, which usually subsides quickly.
• Light vaginal bleeding or spotting, typically due to irritation of the cervix during catheter insertion.
• Multiple pregnancies
• Infection

In rare cases, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome may occur, particularly if fertility medications are used to stimulate ovulation before IUI. Symptoms of OHSS include abdominal bloating, discomfort, nausea, and swelling of the abdomen. Severe cases require medical attention.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before undergoing IUI. Monitoring your symptoms closely and seeking medical attention if you experience severe or persistent discomfort is advisable.

IUI Success Rates

The overall success rate of each IUI cycle is between 10 and 20 percent. Still, much of this depends on the reasons for the IUI and the age of the female (one of the most important determining factors in the success rates of IUI cycles).

Chances may be higher in patients with no known fertility challenges, such as couples unable to have intercourse due to travel or sexual dysfunction and those using donor sperm.

Cost of IUI

The cost of IUI ranges from $500 to $1,500 per cycle in the US, excluding medication and additional testing fees. It’s advisable to check with your healthcare provider and insurance for coverage or financing options.

Get Personalized IUI Fertility Treatment in California

At PRC, we are proud to help women overcome their fertility issues and achieve healthy pregnancies. If you think intrauterine insemination could help you welcome a beautiful baby into your family, please contact the PRC team for a consultation today.

Don’t let fertility obstacles stand in your way. Call us at 424-340-0871 to learn about IUI in Orange County, Los Angeles, and Riverside.