When is IUI recommended for female infertility?

Intrauterine insemination places prepared sperm inside the uterus close to ovulation. The cycle may use natural ovulation or medicine to help develop an egg, followed by ultrasound or hormone monitoring. IUI can be considered for ovulation problems after treatment, unexplained infertility, difficulty having intercourse, or use of donor sperm. It is less suitable when both tubes are blocked, ovarian reserve is a concern, or sperm factors make insemination unlikely to work; another treatment may then be discussed.

A fertility clinician usually reviews ovulation, ovarian reserve, the uterus, fallopian tubes and sperm results before recommending IUI. Ask whether your cycle needs stimulation, how ovulation will be timed, what monitoring is required, and what the next option would be if IUI is not suitable or does not lead to pregnancy. Read more about [IUI](/treatments/fertility-and-assisted-reproduction/iui/).

Arrange a fertility assessment if pregnancy has not occurred despite regular attempts, or sooner if periods are absent or very irregular, there is known tubal disease, previous pelvic infection, endometriosis, or a concern about ovarian reserve. During treatment, seek urgent advice for severe pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, faintness or marked abdominal swelling.

Ask what cause of infertility is suspected, whether your tubes and ovulation have been assessed, whether stimulation is advised, and when another treatment would offer a better fit.