Who Needs IUI?
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is one of the most commonly recommended first-line fertility treatments. It is less invasive than IVF and can be an effective option for couples facing mild to moderate fertility challenges. But not everyone requires IUI.
At Iswarya Fertility Centre, fertility specialists evaluate each couple carefully before recommending IUI, ensuring the right treatment is chosen at the right time.
What Is IUI?
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a procedure where specially processed sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation. This increases the number of healthy sperm reaching the egg and improves the chances of fertilisation.
How IUI Works:
Monitoring ovulation (natural or medication-assisted cycle)
Collecting and processing semen in the lab
Selecting the healthiest, motile sperm
Placing sperm into the uterus using a thin catheter
The procedure is simple, quick, and usually painless.
Who Needs IUI Treatment?
IUI is typically recommended in the following situations:
1. Mild Male Factor Infertility
Men with:
Slightly low sperm count
Mild motility issues
Minor morphology abnormalities
May benefit from IUI, as sperm washing improves the concentration of healthy sperm.
2. Unexplained Infertility
When standard fertility tests show normal results but pregnancy does not occur, IUI may be used as an initial treatment step before moving to IVF.
3. Ovulation Disorders
Women with irregular ovulation or conditions like PCOS may benefit from ovulation induction combined with IUI to increase conception chances.
4. Cervical Mucus Issues
If cervical mucus prevents sperm from entering the uterus naturally, IUI bypasses the cervix by placing sperm directly inside the uterus.
5. Short Duration of Infertility
Couples who have been trying for less than 2–3 years and have mild fertility concerns may start with IUI before considering advanced treatments.
6. Ejaculatory Dysfunction
Men with mild ejaculatory issues may benefit from sperm collection and laboratory processing followed by IUI.
Quick Reference – Who Is an Ideal Candidate for IUI?
| Condition | Why IUI Helps |
| Mild male infertility | Improves sperm concentration |
| Unexplained infertility | Enhances fertilisation chances |
| Irregular ovulation | Combined with ovulation induction |
| Cervical factor infertility | Bypasses cervix |
| Early-stage infertility | First-line treatment option |
This comparison helps clarify when IUI is considered effective.
When IUI May Not Be Suitable
IUI may not be recommended if:
Fallopian tubes are blocked
Severe male infertility is present
There have been multiple failed IUI cycles
Advanced maternal age significantly reduces egg quality
In such cases, IVF may offer better success rates.
Success Rates of IUI
IUI success depends on several factors:
Age of the female partner
Ovarian reserve
Sperm quality
Underlying medical condition
On average, IUI success rates range from 10–20% per cycle, and doctors may recommend 3–4 cycles before considering IVF if pregnancy does not occur.
At Iswarya Fertility Centre, proper ovulation tracking and laboratory sperm preparation improve IUI success outcomes.
How Iswarya Fertility Centre Supports IUI Patients
At Iswarya Fertility Centre, IUI treatment includes:
Comprehensive fertility evaluation
Individualised ovulation stimulation protocols
Advanced sperm processing techniques
Close cycle monitoring for accurate timing
Transparent counselling and emotional support
The centre ensures that couples receive personalised care rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Benefits of IUI
Less invasive than IVF
More affordable
Minimal discomfort
Can be performed in a natural or stimulated cycle
For many couples with mild infertility, IUI offers an effective and less complex treatment option.
Key Takeaway
IUI is often recommended for couples with mild fertility challenges, unexplained infertility, or ovulation disorders. It serves as an effective first-line treatment before considering advanced procedures like IVF.
With accurate diagnosis and personalized care at Iswarya Fertility Centre, couples can confidently choose IUI when it is medically appropriate and take a step closer to parenthood.
