Other techniques used in IVF include:

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (a single healthy sperm cell is directly injected into a mature egg),

assisted hatching (a hole is made in the outer covering of the embryo [is removed to] facilitate embryo implantation into the uterus), and

using donor eggs or sperm. Gestational surrogates may also be considered for women for whom pregnancy poses high health risks, or for those who have a non-functional uterus.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a treatment for infertility, performed in couples unable to conceive. IUI involves placing sperm in a woman’s uterus close to the time of ovulation to facilitate fertilisation (fusion of egg and sperm). IUI gives the sperm a head start in entering the womb, but will still have to reach and fertilise the egg on its own.

Who is suitable for IUI?

IUI is a fertility treatment indicated for couples with conditions such as unexplained infertility, abnormal/borderline sperm count or mobility, cervical problems and ejaculation dysfunction and mild endometriosis.

Intrauterine Insemination Procedure

The ovaries are mildly stimulated by taking tablets and occasionally injections and monitored to produce 1-3 mature follicles by TVS. Once mature, ovulation is induced with an injection and the insemination is done the next day.

Dr Turner injects the sample of semen directly into the uterus through a catheter (a long tube). After the procedure, you will be asked to remain lying for a few minutes. This entire procedure may cause minimal discomfort and is completed in a short time.

Risks and Complications of IUI

IUI is relatively safe and is not associated with serious complications. However, certain risks may occur such as infection and vaginal bleeding due to the placement of the catheter inside the uterus.

IUI by itself may not be associated with a risk of multiple pregnancies. However, when coupled with ovulation-inducing medication, you are at a higher risk of multiple pregnancies. Other possible complications associated with specific steps of an IUI include:

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) (a condition of ovarian enlargement accompanied by fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity)
• The formation of ovarian cyst which generally resolves spontaneously.
• No increase in ovarian or breast cancer.
• Miscarriage rates the same as the general population
• Possibility of ectopic or tubal pregnancy
• Small risk of pelvic infection.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)?

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) uses special methods to help infertile couples.

ART involves handling both the woman’s eggs and the man’s sperm.

Success rates vary and depend on many factors. ART can be expensive and time-consuming. But ART has made it possible for many couples to have children that otherwise would not have been conceived.