Intrauterine Insemination / Ovulation Induction
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Center for Reproductive Health
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and Ovulation Induction (OI)
At the Center for Reproductive Health in Spokane, we offer both Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and Ovulation Induction (OI) as effective fertility treatments for individuals and couples looking to enhance their chances of conception. These treatments are often combined to optimize the timing of ovulation and the insemination process, offering a more controlled approach to achieving pregnancy.
What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that involves placing sperm directly into a woman’s uterus during ovulation, increasing the chances of fertilization. This procedure is less invasive than in vitro fertilization (IVF) and is often a first-line treatment for couples dealing with mild fertility challenges or unexplained infertility.
How Does IUI Work?
During IUI, a sperm sample is collected, washed, and concentrated to ensure the highest quality sperm are selected. The prepared sperm are then inserted into the uterus using a thin catheter, ideally timed around ovulation to maximize the likelihood of fertilization. This treatment is often paired with ovulation induction (OI) to ensure that ovulation occurs at the optimal time for insemination.
What is Ovulation Induction (OI)?
Combining IUI with OI is often recommended for patients experiencing:
- Unexplained infertility: Couples with no identifiable cause for infertility may benefit from IUI and OI as a less invasive treatment before moving to IVF.
- Mild male factor infertility: If sperm count, motility, or morphology is slightly below normal, IUI can help by delivering concentrated, healthy sperm closer to the egg.
- Irregular or absent ovulation: Women who don’t ovulate regularly or at all may use OI to stimulate egg release, increasing their chances of becoming pregnant.
- Cervical mucus issues: Sometimes, a woman’s cervical mucus can create a barrier for sperm. IUI bypasses this issue by placing sperm directly into the uterus.
- Same-sex couples or single parents: IUI offers a path to pregnancy for same-sex female couples or single women using donor sperm.
The Process of IUI with Ovulation Induction at Our Spokane Clinic
- Initial Consultation and Testing
Before beginning IUI with OI, our fertility specialists will conduct thorough testing, including hormone evaluations, ovarian reserve testing, and a semen analysis. This helps ensure that IUI and OI are the right treatments for you. - Ovulation Induction
Once a treatment plan is established, OI begins with medications to stimulate egg production. Your progress will be closely monitored through blood tests and ultrasounds to track follicle development. - Trigger Shot
When the follicles reach the appropriate size, a “trigger shot” of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is given to induce ovulation within 36 hours. - Insemination
On the day of insemination, a semen sample is collected from your partner or a donor. The sperm is washed and concentrated to select the most motile sperm. The sperm is then inserted into the uterus via a thin catheter during a quick and painless procedure. - Post-Insemination
After the insemination, you will be advised to rest briefly before resuming your normal activities. A pregnancy test is typically scheduled 10-14 days after the procedure.
Center for Reproductive Health
Is IUI with OI Right for You?
Combining IUI with OI is often recommended for those with ovulation disorders, mild male infertility, or unexplained infertility. If you are interested in learning more about this treatment, schedule a consultation at the Center for Reproductive Health in Spokane. Our team will tailor a treatment plan to suit your unique fertility needs.
By offering these treatments, we strive to provide personalized, compassionate care for patients throughout Spokane and the Inland Northwest, guiding you every step of the way on your path to parenthood.
Success Rates of IUI with Ovulation Induction
Success rates for IUI with OI depend on several factors, including the age of the woman, the underlying cause of infertility, and the quality of sperm. On average, success rates range from 10-20% per cycle, and many couples undergo multiple cycles to increase their chances of conception.
For women under 35, the success rate is generally higher, while women over 40 may consider moving to more advanced treatments like IVF sooner. By combining IUI with OI, many patients significantly improve their odds of achieving a pregnancy.
Why Choose the Center for Reproductive Health in Spokane for IUI with Ovulation Induction?
At the Center for Reproductive Health, we understand that fertility treatment can be both an emotional and physical journey. Our Spokane clinic offers cutting-edge fertility treatments like IUI with OI in a compassionate and supportive environment. Our specialists work closely with you to customize a treatment plan that meets your unique needs and maximizes your chances of success.
We are proud to serve Spokane and the Inland Northwest, providing top-tier reproductive care for couples and individuals facing fertility challenges. Our team of experts combines the latest medical advances with a patient-first approach, ensuring that you feel supported every step of the way.
Center for Reproductive Health
Frequently Asked Questions About IUI and Ovulation Induction
The IUI procedure itself is quick and typically takes no more than 5-10 minutes. It is performed in our office, and you can return to your normal activities shortly after.
Most patients report minimal discomfort during both ovulation induction and the IUI procedure. Some women may experience mild cramping or bloating during ovulation stimulation, but these side effects are usually temporary.
If IUI with OI does not result in pregnancy after 3-6 cycles, your doctor may recommend moving to IVF for higher success rates. However, the decision will depend on your unique fertility profile.
Coverage for IUI and ovulation induction varies depending on your insurance provider. Our financial coordinators can help you understand your options and assist in maximizing your coverage.
Take the Next Step: Schedule a Consultation
If you’re considering IUI with ovulation induction, contact the Center for Reproductive Health in Spokane today to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through the process, offering expert care and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve your dream of parenthood.