IUI, AIU (intrauterinná inseminácia)

Intrauterine insemination is a method of assisted reproduction, that can be used when a man’s semen analysis is normal,  in cases of mild male infertility ( slightly reduced sperm motility or abnormal sperm morphology) and in case of some mild forms of  female infertility .

Insemination is performed during ovulation, in most cases after hormonal preparation (stimulation) of the female partner. The semen sample is processed to separate sperm cells from seminal plasma, which improves sperm motility and overall quality.

The washed and concentrated sperm cells are then introduced into the uterine cavity using a thin catheter, helping the sperm bypass barriers that may prevent them from reaching the egg naturally. Even when IUI is appropriately indicated, the success rate per cycle is below 10%, including the first attempt. Insemination is recommended only if the PCT (postcoital test) result is positive. Otherwise, IUI has no higher chance of success than trying to conceive naturally at home. Due to the low success rate, we recommend a maximum of three IUI cycles; if pregnancy does not occur, we move on to the more effective and faster option: IVF.

In more severe cases of male infertility, when insemination with the partner’s sperm is not possible, donor’s sperm can be used instead. Donor insemination ( assisted intrauterine insemination, AIUI) still remains an available treatment option, however, there are now assisted reproductive techniques that can help overcome even very severe cases of male infertility.