IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)

What is IUI?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that involves placing sperm directly into a woman's uterus to facilitate fertilization. The goal of IUI is to increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes and subsequently increase the chance of fertilization. This procedure is simpler and less invasive than in vitro fertilization (IVF) and is often tried before moving on to more advanced fertility treatments. IUI is commonly used for couples with unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, cervical factor infertility, or when using donor sperm.

Procedure Details

The IUI procedure typically involves several steps. First, the female partner may take fertility medications to stimulate ovulation. Ultrasound monitoring tracks follicle development to determine the optimal timing for insemination. When follicles reach the appropriate size, a trigger shot may be administered to induce ovulation. The male partner provides a semen sample, which undergoes washing and processing in the laboratory to concentrate the healthiest, most active sperm. Using a thin, flexible catheter, the prepared sperm sample is then inserted directly into the woman's uterus around the time of ovulation. The procedure itself is quick (about 5-10 minutes), relatively painless, and performed without anesthesia in an outpatient setting. Some clinics offer advanced sperm selection techniques such as density gradient centrifugation or swim-up methods to further improve success rates.

Recovery Information

• Procedure Time: 5-10 MIN
• Back to Work: SAME DAY
• Anesthetist: NONE
• Hospitalization Time: OUTPATIENT
• Recovery Time: MINIMAL
• Stay Time: 7-10 days (for monitoring cycle and procedure)

Benefits

• Less invasive and less expensive than IVF
• Minimal discomfort during the procedure
• No or minimal medication side effects
• Natural fertilization process within the body
• Higher success rates than natural intercourse for certain fertility issues
• Quick procedure with no recovery time
• Can be performed during a natural cycle or with mild ovarian stimulation
• Option to use partner or donor sperm

Why Choose Iran for IUI

Iran offers numerous significant advantages for international patients seeking IUI treatment:

• Specialized Fertility Expertise: Iranian reproductive specialists are highly skilled in fertility treatments, with many having trained at prestigious global institutions
• Exceptional Cost Savings: IUI in Iran costs 70-80% less than in Western countries, with comprehensive packages starting from $300-$800 per cycle (compared to $1,500-$4,000 in the US or Europe)
• Advanced Fertility Centers: State-of-the-art clinics equipped with the latest technology for follicular monitoring and sperm processing
• Comprehensive Fertility Assessment: Thorough evaluation to identify underlying causes of infertility before treatment
• High Success Rates: Iranian fertility centers report success rates comparable to leading global institutions
• Minimal Wait Times: Quick scheduling with virtually no waiting lists
• All-Inclusive Packages: Comprehensive care covering pre-procedure assessment, medication protocols, the procedure itself, post-procedure care, accommodation, transportation, and interpreter services
• Personalized Treatment Protocols: Customized medication and monitoring plans based on individual patient needs
• Cultural Sensitivity: Staff trained to respect cultural and religious preferences regarding fertility treatments

Risks and Considerations

• Mild cramping during or after the procedure
• Small risk of infection
• Possibility of multiple pregnancies if fertility medications are used
• Success rates vary based on age and cause of infertility
• May require multiple cycles for success
• Potential side effects from fertility medications if used
• Emotional stress associated with fertility treatments
• Not effective for all types of infertility

Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates for IUI include individuals or couples who:- Have unexplained infertility- Have mild male factor infertility (slightly low sperm count or motility)- Have cervical factor infertility- Are using donor sperm- Have mild endometriosis- Have ovulatory disorders responsive to medication- Are under 40 years of age (though older patients may still benefit)- Have at least one open and functional fallopian tube- Have not had success with less invasive fertility treatments

Preparation for Travel to Iran

Before traveling to Iran for IUI treatment, patients should:- Consult with their chosen Iranian fertility center remotely- Complete initial fertility testing in their home country and share results- Obtain necessary medical visa (facilitated by most medical tourism providers)- Discuss treatment protocol and timing with the Iranian specialist- Track menstrual cycles for optimal treatment timing- Arrange travel dates to coincide with the appropriate phase of the menstrual cycle- Prepare for a 7-10 day stay in Iran for monitoring and the procedure- Bring all current medical records and medication lists- Consider accommodations near the fertility clinic for convenient monitoring

Post-Procedure Care in Iran

After IUI in Iran, patients benefit from:- Immediate post-procedure guidance from fertility specialists- Progesterone supplementation if prescribed- Guidance on activities and precautions following the procedure- Pregnancy testing arrangements- Dedicated medical tourism coordinators to assist with any needs- Comfortable accommodations during the waiting period- Translation services for all medical communications- Detailed instructions for continued care upon returning home- Remote follow-up consultations as needed

Long-Term Results

Success rates for IUI vary depending on the cause of infertility, the woman's age, and whether fertility medications are used. On average, success rates range from 10-20% per cycle, with cumulative success rates increasing with multiple cycles. Most pregnancies occur within the first three to four treatment cycles. Patients who undergo IUI in Iran report success rates comparable to those achieved at leading global centers but at a fraction of the cost. For those who do not achieve pregnancy after several IUI cycles, Iranian fertility specialists can provide guidance on transitioning to more advanced treatments such as IVF. The emotional support and cost savings offered by Iranian fertility centers make it possible for many patients to pursue multiple treatment cycles or progress to other fertility options if needed.