What to expect from IUI for male factor infertility

Male factor infertility may involve sperm number, movement, shape, ejaculation, or sperm delivery. The fertility team usually reviews semen analysis results and may repeat testing because results can vary. IUI uses a processed sample in which the laboratory concentrates suitable moving sperm, then places it inside the uterus near ovulation. This can help when the main challenge is getting enough moving sperm close to the egg.

The female partner's ovulation and reproductive health are assessed as well. The cycle may be natural or supported with medicine and ultrasound monitoring. IUI is not suitable for every sperm or tubal finding, so the team will explain whether another treatment would give a more appropriate route to conception.

The sperm provider follows the clinic's instructions for producing and delivering the sample, including its collection container and timing. The laboratory prepares the sample before insemination. A clinician inserts a speculum and guides a thin catheter through the cervix into the uterus. The procedure is usually brief; pressure, mild cramps, or light spotting can happen afterwards. Follow the clinic's advice about medicines and the pregnancy-test date.

Contact the fertility clinic for significant pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, fever, foul-smelling discharge, or feeling unwell after IUI. If ovulation medicine was used, report severe bloating, worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, or breathlessness promptly. Emergency care is needed for collapse, severe breathlessness, or sudden intense pain.

Ask what the semen results show, whether the sample should be collected at home or at the clinic, what happens if the sample cannot be produced that day, whether ovulation medicine is recommended, how many monitoring visits are expected, and when to discuss IVF or another approach if IUI is not suitable.