What IUI is
In natural conception, sperm has to swim from the vagina through the cervix and uterus to reach the egg in the fallopian tube. Only a small share makes it. In IUI, the semen sample is washed and concentrated in the lab, and the best moving sperm are placed directly into the uterus with a thin, soft tube. This shortens the distance and raises the number of sperm near the egg at the right time.
Dr. Prachi trained in IUI with the British Fertility Society in the UK and has a ten-part IUI series on her YouTube channel for couples who like to read up before they start.
Who IUI may suit
- At least one fallopian tube is open and healthy.
- Ovulation is irregular, for example with PCOS, and needs gentle support.
- The semen analysis shows a mild drop in count or movement.
- Tests are normal but pregnancy has not happened (unexplained infertility).
- Intercourse is difficult because of pain, timing or travel.
- Donor sperm is being used.
If both tubes are blocked, egg reserve is very low, or the sperm count is severely reduced, IUI is unlikely to work and IVF or ICSI is usually advised instead.
How an IUI cycle works
- Day 2 or 3 scanA baseline scan checks the ovaries and lining. Tablets or low-dose injections may be started to support one or two eggs to grow.
- Follicle trackingTwo or three short scans follow the growing follicle. This is called follicular monitoring.
- Trigger injectionOnce the follicle is ready, a trigger injection times ovulation. The IUI is planned for about 24 to 36 hours later.
- IUI dayYour partner gives a fresh sample, which is washed in the lab. The insemination itself takes a few minutes and you rest briefly afterwards.
- Two week waitProgesterone support may be advised. A pregnancy test is done about 14 days later.
Honest talk on chances
Success with IUI depends mainly on the woman's age, the reason for the delay and the sperm quality on the day. Per cycle, chances are modest, which is why most couples are advised to try up to three or four cycles. Most pregnancies from IUI happen within that window. If it has not worked by then, Dr. Prachi will review the plan with you rather than repeating the same thing.
Side effects and safety
IUI is a low-risk treatment. Some women feel mild cramps or spotting after the procedure. When fertility medicines are used, there is a small chance of more than one egg releasing, which raises the chance of twins. Scans are used to keep this risk low, and a cycle may be cancelled if too many follicles grow.
Questions couples ask
Is IUI painful?
Most women describe it as similar to a Pap smear. It takes a few minutes and no anaesthesia is needed.
Do I need bed rest after IUI?
No. Resting for 10 to 15 minutes in the clinic is enough. You can go back to normal daily activities the same day.
How many IUI cycles should we try?
Usually three to four cycles. If pregnancy has not happened by then, it is sensible to review the plan and consider IVF.
Can IUI be done without medicines?
Yes, in a natural cycle when ovulation is regular. Mild medicines are often added to make timing more reliable.
This page gives general information only. Dr. Prachi will advise on what suits you after reviewing your history and reports.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Prachi Benara, MS, DNB, MRCOG (London). Last updated October 2026.