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Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
IUI · intrauterine insemination · artificial insemination · fertility insemination
Prepared sperm is placed in the womb with a thin, soft tube on your ovulation days. This brings the sperm closer to the egg.
For sperm quality problems, cervical issues, unexplained infertility, or when using donor sperm.
⏱ Duration: the procedure itself usually takes 5 to 10 minutes; a pregnancy test about 2 weeks later
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Tests. Both partners have tests beforehand, including a tube check and a semen analysis.
- Ovulation. Ovulation is tracked by ultrasound, sometimes helped with medicine or a trigger shot. Your doctor will set the time.
- Partner. Your partner gives a sperm sample on the day. Usually 2 to 5 days without ejaculation beforehand. Check with the clinic.
What to bring
- Both partners' documents
- Test and ultrasound results
- A pad
How it goes
- Your partner's or donor sperm is prepared in the lab. This takes 1 to 2 hours
- You lie in the gynecological chair
- The doctor inserts a speculum
- A thin, soft tube is passed through the cervix into the womb, and the sperm is slowly released
- The tube is removed
- You lie still for a little while, then you can go
What you'll feel
- Usually like a smear test, a little unpleasant
- Sometimes mild cramps low in the belly
Afterwards
- You can go about your normal life, without heavy exertion
- Light spotting can happen
- Sometimes hormone support is prescribed. Take it as scheduled
- A pregnancy test or blood test about 2 weeks later
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Severe belly pain, bloating, or shortness of breath after ovarian stimulation: see a doctor urgently
- A fever over 38°C (100.4°F)
Common questions
How many tries are usually needed?
Often up to 3 to 4 cycles are tried. If it does not work, your doctor will suggest other options.
Do I need to lie down for long afterward?
No. Usually 10 to 15 minutes is enough.