Intrauterine insemination

IUI

IUI is often where fertility treatment begins. It is a gentler, less intensive option that gives your body a well-timed helping hand. For the right couples, it can be an effective first step before considering anything more involved.

Timeline

2–3 weeks

Anaesthesia

None

Clinic visits

Minimal

Is this right for you?

IUImay be right for you if…

Unexplained infertility at an earlier stage
Mild male factor — slightly reduced count or motility
Cervical mucus that may be preventing sperm from reaching the egg
Couples who want to try a gentler option before IVF
Single women or same-sex couples using donor sperm
Ovulation disorders supported with light medication

The process

The journey, step by step.

Monitoring your cycle

A scan or two to track your natural ovulation, or light hormone tablets to support it. For most IUI patients there are no injections — just careful monitoring to find the right moment.

Preparing the sperm

On the day of the procedure, your partner provides a sample. Our laboratory washes and concentrates the most active, motile sperm over about two hours — a simple, standard process that makes a real difference.

The insemination

A thin, flexible catheter places the prepared sperm gently into your uterus just as you are ovulating. The procedure takes a few minutes and is usually painless — most patients describe it as a mild internal sensation.

The wait

Normal activities can resume immediately. There is nothing you need to change. A blood test or home test about two weeks later gives you the result, and we are here if you want to talk through how you are feeling.

What to expect

Honest about the experience.

IUI is much less intensive than IVF — fewer clinic visits, no injections for most patients, and a very brief procedure on the day. You may feel mild cramp-like discomfort for a short time after the insemination. Success rates per cycle are lower than IVF, which is why couples often try a few cycles before deciding on next steps.

Common questions