Infertility is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It reduces a person’s natural ability to conceive. Just like there are several factors affecting fertility in men and women, there are several treatments to manage the condition. One of the best treatments is IUI (Intrauterine Insemination). Let us look into important things you must know about IUI.
IUI: What is it?
IUI, an acronym for Intrauterine Insemination, is a type of ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology). It is often recommended to couples struggling with infertility. The procedure is usually timed with the menstrual cycle. It includes placing washed sperm in the uterus to increase the chances of conception.
Why is IUI Performed?
IUI treatment in India is often advised for couples with fertility struggles. It is primarily recommended in the cases discussed below:
- Unexplained Infertility
Unexplained infertility occurs when doctors are not able to identify the root cause of infertility. IUI is one of the first procedures recommended to treat this situation. The treatment is often administered with additional fertility medications.
- Donor Sperm
Couples usually opt for donor sperm if there is some issue with the male partner’s sperm. IUI increases the chances of successful conception. The procedure involves defrosting (in case frozen sperm is used) and washing the sperm before it is placed in the mother’s uterus.
- Endometriosis Concerns
Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility. It happens due to abnormal growth of the uterus lining. IUI performed with some medications enhances the egg quality.
- Cervical Issues
The cervix is the uterus’ lower and narrow end. It acts as an opening between the uterus and the vagina. Ovulation happens when the cervix produces mucus during egg release. It helps the sperm to reach the fallopian tube. However, if the mucus produced is extremely thick, it will hinder the sperm’s pathway to the fallopian tubes. IUI works by bypassing the cervix, shortening the distance sperm needs to travel. This increases the chances of successful conception.
- Semen Allergy
Women allergic to semen protein can struggle with infertility. It happens when the semen touches the woman’s skin, resulting in a sensitive response. It can result in symptoms like redness, swelling, and a burning sensation. In such cases, doctors or fertility specialists recommend IUI. The procedure involves isolating the sperm from the semen before placing it into the uterus.
- Male Infertility
IUI is often recommended for couples who are unable to conceive due to male infertility concerns. Infertility in men can be due to several reasons, including low sperm quality, morphologically defective sperm, and poor sperm motility.
What Factors Determine the Success Rates of IUI?
Some factors that affect the success of treatment include:
- Sperm Quantity
The number of sperms present in the semen can affect the treatment’s success. Therefore, it is crucial to have a higher sperm concentration in the sample, which will be used throughout the procedure.
- Less or Medium Strenuous Exercise
Although exercise and workouts are essential for our bodies, understanding your limits and following them is essential to prevent potential complications in the future. Doctors often recommend sticking to less strenuous exercises such as swimming, yoga, and walking while undergoing IUI or other infertility treatments. Engaging in vigorous workouts can decrease the chances of success.
- Intimacy Post-Treatment
While many may consider intercourse unnecessary after the IUI procedure, it might increase the chances of successful conception.
- Healthy Diet
Nutrition and diet play a crucial role in the success of any treatment. The same is the case in IUI. Therefore, stick to a healthy and nutritious diet. You can also consult your fertility specialists or doctors about the foods. Try to avoid processed meals or foods.
- Stress
Stress is more harmful to your body than you think. If unaddressed, it can disturb the normal functioning of almost every organ. Managing stress is important, especially when you are undergoing infertility treatments. You can start by walking, meditating, or engaging in different breathing methods.
Conclusion
Intrauterine Insemination, or IUI, is a fertility treatment that increases the chances of successful conception in couples struggling with infertility. Get in touch with an infertility specialist in India to understand if IUI works for your infertility concerns.
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