IUI is a realatively non-invasive method that can be used to get you one step closer to your dream of nurtureing your child. IVF can be preceded by IUI. Find out more below.
Step 1 – Beginning of IUI Cycle
After the preliminary check-ups have been done, we will decide on the treatment plan. Once registered, we will start with the IUI procedures. These include:
- 1st Ultrasound Scan
- Start medication
You will be able to start taking the oral medication in the comfort of your home.
Step 2 –2nd ultrasound Scan
During the 2nd ultrasound scan, we will discuss with you about the further course of action to be taken about your medication, with alterations as necessary. For this stage, we will:
- Continue medication and adjust if necessary
- Injectable medications may be added if necessary
Step 3 –Further ultrasound Scans
During the next few ultrasound scans, we will discuss with you about the further course of action to be taken about your medication and alter as necessary. Ultrasounds will continue for monitoring the ovarian response and check that appropriate follicular growth is taking place
Step 4 – Trigger injection for ovulation
After the ultrasound scan, the trigger injection for ovulation will be administered if the follicles have reached optimal size and endometrium is well developed. It takes just over 38 hours for ovulation to occur after an injection of HCG. Eggs are mature and can float free for about 34 hours after HCG. IUI is scheduled 36-40 hours after the HCG injection.
Step 5 – IUI procedure
Male partner produces semen by masturbation or previously frozen semen is thawed and used. A semen sample will be washed by the lab to separate the semen from the seminal fluid. This is to remove bacteria, other debris, and chemical that may cause infection and irritation and also to improve sperm capacitation.
A catheter will then be used to insert the sperm directly into the uterus. This helps in placing maximum number of sperm cells in the uterus, which increases the chances of conception. Procedure is simple and without any anaesthesia. There will be minimal discomfort.
Step 6 – Pregnancy blood test
Pregnancy blood test is performed after 14 days of the IUI procedure. This is the day that you have been waiting for! Although you should stay positive about the outcome, and have faith in yourself and the doctor, do keep in mind that while IUI is a less invasive and less expensive option, pregnancy rates from IUI are low, approximately 15 to 18 percent. So you may need multiple IUIs.
Step 7 – Pregnancy Confirmation and further treatment
After the pregnancy is detected by blood test, ultrasound scan will be advised to perform to confirm pregnancy. Once pregnant, the hormone medications need to continue till a particular gestational period. These medicines are monitored and changed as required and antenatal follow up done. You will be advised to get Ultrasound scans for pregnancy to be done from outside as and when needed. This is an ultrasound examination that is usually carried out vaginally at 6-10 weeks of pregnancy. The aims of this scan are to determine the number of embryos present and whether the pregnancy is progressing normally inside the uterus.
Follow up counselling will be performed if required.
Step 8 – Pregnancy care
Pregnancy care up to completion of 12 weeks of gestation will be performed according to appointment schedule with the doctor.