Keys to a Successful IUI: Optimising Your Chances of Conception

Are you considering undergoing an assisted reproductive technology (ART), such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in your fertility journey, or are you simply curious about this procedure?

For many couples, the path to parenthood entails making informed decisions and understanding the factors that could determine the success of your IUI procedure. This guide aims to share more information about IUI and how to optimise your chances of a successful conception, so you can approach this fertility treatment with better knowledge of how it works.

Why is an IUI performed?

IUI is often taken as a first step in fertility treatments for couples who are having trouble conceiving. It's a relatively less invasive and more affordable option compared to more complex procedures, like in vitro fertilisation (IVF). IUI is frequently recommended for couples with unexplained infertility, reduced sperm quality, reduced sperm count, or cervical complications.

This fertility treatment helps to increase your chances of pregnancy by placing your partner’s sperm directly into your womb. During IUI, this treatment also selects the most healthy and active sperm, which can help increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes, thereby increasing your chances of fertilisation.

To increase the chance of conception, this procedure is best performed during the ovulation period of your menstrual cycle or with superovulation with intrauterine insemination (SO-IUI).

If you are considering undergoing fertility treatments such as IUI, it is best to visit your nearest fertility clinic and discuss with a fertility specialist for personalised recommendations tailored to your fertility conditions. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.

When is IUI not recommended?

This fertility treatment is less suitable if you experience severe tubal diseases such as blocked fallopian tubes or hormonal disorders such as endometriosis, or if your partner is experiencing significant male factor infertility.

This is because:

• Blocked fallopian tubes can prevent egg and sperm from meeting

• Endometriosis may affect egg release or implantation

• Severe male infertility significantly impacts success rates

If these underlying problems are present, it can affect the IUI success rates. Thus, IVF is often recommended in these situations, as it can bypass these conditions and offer higher pregnancy chances

What are the factors that affect the success rate of an IUI?

Age

Age is one of the most important factors affecting IUI success:

• If you’re under 35, you generally have a better chance of success with IUI (around 10-20% per cycle).

• Success rates decrease with age, especially after age 35, as egg quality naturally changes with your age.

Sperm quality

Male fertility plays a critical role in IUI success:

• IUI is more effective when sperm count and motility (movement) are good.

• If sperm quality is a concern, your doctor may recommend IVF as a more suitable option.

Ovarian reserve

Women with a healthy ovarian reserve have higher chances of success:

• This means how many eggs you have and how healthy they are.

• Tests such as AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) and antral follicle count assess your ovarian reserve.

Timing of ovulation

Precise timing is essential for IUI success:

• The IUI procedure must coincide exactly with ovulation.

• If IUI is performed too early or too late, the likelihood of conception decreases.

• Your doctor will use ovulation kits, blood tests, or ultrasound monitoring to get the timing right.

The number of follicles

The number of eggs released affects success rates:

• A single mature follicle is typically ideal for IUI.

• Multiple follicles can increase chances of success but also raise the risk of twins or triplets.

• Your doctor will monitor follicle development through ultrasounds.

Sperm preparation

Sperm preparation is a key step in the IUI process:

• The sperm sample is processed and "washed" to remove toxins, dead sperm, and other impurities.

• This creates concentrated, healthy sperm for insemination.

• This step helps ensure only the healthiest sperm are used.

• This step maximises the likelihood of successful fertilisation.

For more information about your fertility journey and to receive advice tailored to your unique situation, consider speaking with a fertility specialist. You may contact Thomson Medical to arrange a consultation for personalised guidance on IUI, treatment options, and the next steps in your parenthood journey.

Does using fertility medication improve IUI success rates?

Yes, fertility medications can help stimulate ovulation and improve the quantity and quality of eggs, boosting your chances of success with IUI. A popular choice is clomiphene citrate, also known as Clomid.

This fertility medication is used to trick your brain into thinking your oestrogen levels are lower than they actually are. When your brain gets this signal, your pituitary gland responds by releasing more FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinising hormone). These hormones then get to work stimulating your ovaries to develop and release eggs. It's like giving your natural ovulation process a gentle but effective boost.

The timing can vary slightly between individuals due to factors like hormonal balance and overall reproductive health, but most women see results within a few IUI cycles.

Tips for after your IUI

After your IUI procedure, it is important to:

• Rest and recuperate:

  • While strict bed rest is not necessary, taking it easy for a day or two post-procedure is encouraged.

• Avoid strenuous activities:

  • Skip heavy lifting, rigorous workouts, and hot baths or saunas to protect implantation chances.

• Eat and hydrate well:

  • Focus on nutritious foods and drink plenty of water.

• Manage expectations and stress:

  • Pursuing relaxation methods such as meditation, gentle yoga, or spending time with your loved ones can help during the waiting period.

• Steer clear of harmful substances:

  • Avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.

FAQ

Who benefits from IUI?

Can IUI be successful on the first try?

What are the symptoms that indicate a successful IUI?

Does using fertility medication improve IUI success rates?

How many IUI cycles should I try before considering IVF?

Can lifestyle changes impact the success of IUI?

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.