You've been trying to conceive naturally for a while and are now wondering whether it's time to get some help. Perhaps you're looking for a less intensive, more affordable fertility treatment that requires minimal medication and monitoring appointments.
In that case, simple, non-invasive methods such as timed intercourse or intrauterine insemination (IUI) could be suitable for you. Understanding what each fertility treatment involves, and who it's designed for, can help you make an informed decision.
What is timed intercourse?
Timed intercourse involves planning and having sexual intercourse during a woman's fertile window, typically around ovulation. This method often involves several tracking techniques:
Tracking ovulation using ovulation predictor kits (kit that measure hormone levels in urine)
Charting basal body temperature (your body's lowest resting temperature)
Monitoring cervical mucus changes throughout your cycle
Tracking your fertility using fertility apps or ultrasound monitoring at a fertility clinic
Who is timed intercourse for?
Timed intercourse is often the first step in fertility treatment. This approach works well for couples who:
Are just starting to try for a baby
Have regular menstrual cycles
Have no known fertility issues
Want a non-invasive and low-cost approach to conception
How does timed intercourse work?
The process is not as complicated as you might think. Many couples can do it at home, though you can always seek guidance from a fertility specialist. The process involved:
Ovulation is tracked using hormone tests, ultrasounds, or at-home methods like ovulation predictor kits.
Sexual intercourse is scheduled during the most fertile days, usually 1-2 days before ovulation.
Optional fertility medications like clomiphene citrate or letrozole may be used to boost ovulation. This is called ovulation induction.
An hCG trigger shot may be used if needed to induce ovulation, ensuring precise timing.
What is intrauterine insemination (IUI)?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that helps sperm get closer to the egg. For many couples, IUI is the first recommended step when timed intercourse hasn't worked.
The IUI process involves several steps:
Ovulation is tracked or induced using medication to ensure the right timing.
A sperm sample is collected and processed in a lab. This process is called sperm preparation or sperm wash, which separates the healthiest sperm.
The prepared sperm is injected into the uterus (womb) using a catheter. This sperm injection is quick and usually doesn’t hurt.
Who is IUI for?
IUI is typically recommended for couples or individuals facing specific fertility challenges:
Unexplained infertility
Mild male factor infertility (such as low sperm count or reduced sperm movement)
When cervical mucus prevents sperm from reaching the egg
Irregular or absent ovulation
Sexual difficulties that make intercourse hard or not possible
If you think you may fall into one of these categories or you're unsure whether IUI is suitable for your situation, request an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our fertility specialists can review your symptoms, cycle history, and semen analysis to determine whether IUI is the right next step for you.
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What are the differences between IUI and timed intercourse?
Knowing the differences between these two approaches can help you set expectations when choosing your preferred treatments. Here's a side-by-side comparison:
| Factor | Timed intercourse | IUI |
|---|---|---|
Where it's done | At home or with monitoring | In a fertility clinic |
Involves sperm wash? | No | Yes |
Invasiveness | Non-invasive | Minimally invasive |
Use of fertility meds | Optional | Common |
Sperm bypasses the cervix? | No | Yes |
Success rate per cycle | Women aged 25 and younger have about a 45% chance of conceiving on their first cycle of timed intercourse.
For women over 35, they have about a 20% chance on their first cycle.
After age 30, fertility declines by roughly 3-5% per year, with a faster decline after 35. | In natural IUI cycles without stimulation, success rates are typically 4-10% per cycle. With ovarian stimulation using fertility medications, success rates increase to about 10-15% per cycle. However, success gradually declines with age. Women under 30 often have rates of 10-20% per cycle. Women aged 35-40 see moderate success rates of 10-15% per cycle. After 40, women usually have rates around 5%. |
How do you decide between IUI and timed intercourse?
Making this decision can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to figure it all out on your own. Consider these questions when making your decision:
Have you been trying to conceive for over 6-12 months without success?
Is there any male factor infertility, like low sperm count or a cervical issue?
Are you over 35 and want to maximise your chances each month?
Have you tried timed intercourse for several cycles without success?
Are you using donor sperm?
If you’re unsure whether to continue with timed intercourse or move forward with IUI, request an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our fertility specialists can review your medical history, fertility goals, and test results to recommend the most appropriate option for improving your chances of conception.
What's the next step if none of these options work?
First, you must know that needing to move to the next treatment doesn't mean you've done anything wrong. If timed intercourse and IUI have been unsuccessful after 3-6 cycles, the next step is often in vitro fertilisation (IVF). IVF offers:
Higher success rates
Control over embryo selection
Additional options like preimplantation genetic testing to screen for genetic conditions
Embryo freezing for future use
Advanced techniques like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for severe male factor infertility
FAQ
Is IUI more effective than timed intercourse?
Yes, in most cases. IUI tends to be more effective, especially when used with fertility medicines like clomiphene citrate and done during monitored cycles. IUI helps by bypassing the cervix (lower part of your womb) and placing prepared sperm closer to the egg, which increases the chances of reaching and fertilising it.
When should I consider moving from timed intercourse to IUI?
If you’re under 35 and haven’t conceived after 12 months of timed intercourse, or over 35 and have tried for 6 months, it’s a beneficial idea to talk to your doctor about IUI. Your fertility specialist may suggest IUI sooner if there are issues like a low sperm count, cervical mucus problems, or unexplained infertility.
Is medication required for timed intercourse or IUI?
Not always. Both methods can be done naturally or with fertility medications. However, ovulation induction medications like clomiphene citrate, letrozole, or gonadotropins are often used to increase ovulation success and improve timing. Your doctor will recommend medications based on your specific needs and response to treatment.
Which option is more affordable, timed intercourse or IUI?
Timed intercourse is significantly more affordable, especially if done without medications or clinical monitoring. IUI includes medical fees, sperm preparation costs, and lab fees, making it pricier. However, many couples find that IUI's higher success rate justifies the additional cost.
What are the advantages of timed intercourse?
Timed intercourse offers several benefits. It's non-invasive and allows for natural conception at home. The method is cost-effective and requires minimal medical intervention. Many couples find it less stressful because it feels more natural and private. It's also a good option for early-stage fertility evaluation.
Is IUI only for people with fertility issues?
No. While IUI is commonly used to treat various types of infertility, it's also used in other situations. Couples with sexual dysfunction may choose IUI. Individuals or couples using donor sperm also commonly use this method.
The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice based on your unique situations, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.
References:
Zippl, A. L., Wachter, A., Rockenschaub, P., Toth, B., & Seeber, B. (2022). Predicting success of intrauterine insemination using a clinically based scoring system. Archives of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, 306(5), 1777–1786. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-022-06758-z
For more information, contact us:
Thomson Fertility Centre
- Paragon: 6252 7766
Thomson Specialists (Women's Health)
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