Intrauterine Insemination Risks
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a first-line treatment for unexplained infertility. It is less invasive than IVF, and it can produce multiple pregnancies. However, there are several risks associated with this procedure. Learn about the risks associated with intrauterine insemination before undergoing this procedure.
IUI is a first-line treatment for unexplained infertility
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is an assisted conception technique in which sperm is injected into a woman's uterus through the cervix. This procedure effectively prevents the natural barriers to sperm ascent in the female reproductive system. As a result, it is a cost-effective and noninvasive first-line treatment for unexplained infertility.
The success of IUI varies widely. The procedure is best for couples whose infertility is not due to a chromosomal defect. However, it may not be the best option for couples with underlying medical problems. For example, IUI may not work for women with an obstructed cervix or for men unable to ejaculate effectively. Generally, the pregnancy rate with IUI is higher than with no treatment.
It is less invasive than IVF.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a procedure in which an embryo is implanted into the uterus. The egg must be fertilized and considered strong before it can be embedded in the uterus. The process takes between 30 minutes and an hour.
This procedure is considered less invasive than IVF. The sperm are prepared before implanting into the woman's uterus, where they can fertilize the egg and follicle. IUI can be performed on a natural cycle or with ovulation induction to help a couple achieve conception. It is particularly useful for couples apart on the most fertile days of the month.
It is donor insemination.
Donor insemination is the next step after IVF and is usually performed by a fertility clinic. Some gynaecologists and midwives may also offer donor insemination services to their patients. Regardless of the method, the procedure is simple and quick. The woman will lie on a table for a pelvic examination, and a speculum will be inserted through the vagina to visualize the cervix. A sample of washed sperm will then be placed through the cervix and into the uterine cavity. Some women may experience mild cramping or spotting after the donor sperm is put into their uterus.
Donor insemination can be used to conceive a child for infertile couples with low levels of sperm. It may also be used when one partner has a genetic defect or is undergoing chemotherapy. Donor insemination increases the chance of conception by eight to 15 per cent.
It causes multiple pregnancies.
Although there is no definitive evidence that IUI causes multiple pregnancies, IUI may be a factor in several of these pregnancies. In addition, it is known that patients with blocked tubes are at higher risk of ectopic pregnancies than those with healthy lines. Fortunately, most ectopic pregnancies are caught early in the fertility treatment process. However, if they are not caught early, multiple pregnancies may cause various complications.
One of the most common risks associated with IUI is premature birth. A premature baby can suffer from various conditions, including lung, bowels, and stomach problems. This can result in long stays in a neonatal intensive care unit. Furthermore, premature babies can be affected by bleeding in the brain, which can disrupt their development and nervous system. They may also develop cerebral palsy or mental retardation.
It causes congenital malformations.
Congenital malformations of the uterus are congenital disabilities that may affect the health and fertility of a woman. Most women do not have any symptoms of this condition, but a miscarriage or premature delivery can result. About six per cent of all women have some uterine malformation. Your doctor may be able to correct any issues with your uterus using the latest medical techniques.
One study assessed the risk of major congenital malformations in singletons born after IUI and IVFT. The researchers used data from national health databases to identify major congenital disabilities. They categorized the malformations based on the tenth revision of the International Classification of Diseases.
