Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment in which specially prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. By bringing the sperm closer to where fertilisation normally occurs, IUI can be an option for selected fertility situations.
At Miraai Fertility, Seawoods, Navi Mumbai, IUI treatment is planned according to your menstrual cycle, ovulation pattern, fertility evaluation and individual reproductive goals. Dr. Priya Khamatkar, Fertility Specialist and Director, provides personalised fertility care focused on evidence-based treatment, transparent communication and compassionate support.
Book a fertility consultation to find out whether IUI may be suitable for you.
IUI, or Intrauterine Insemination, is an assisted fertility treatment in which prepared sperm is introduced directly into the uterus using a thin catheter.
Before insemination, a semen sample is processed to concentrate sperm with better movement and suitability for the procedure. The insemination is then timed around ovulation so that sperm are present in the reproductive tract when an egg is available for fertilisation.
Unlike IVF, fertilisation during IUI is intended to occur naturally inside the body rather than in a laboratory.
IUI may be considered in selected fertility situations after a detailed evaluation. Depending on the individual circumstances, it may be an option for:
IUI is not appropriate for everyone. The condition of the fallopian tubes, ovulation, sperm parameters, age and other fertility factors need to be considered before treatment.
The decision to recommend IUI depends on the underlying fertility factors and the results of your evaluation. A fertility specialist may consider:
If ovulation is irregular or does not occur consistently, treatment may involve medication to support ovulation followed by careful monitoring and timed insemination.
When sperm concentration, movement or other semen parameters are mildly affected, sperm preparation before IUI may help concentrate the more motile sperm for insemination.
In some couples, routine fertility investigations may not identify a clear reason for difficulty conceiving. Depending on the individual circumstances, IUI may be discussed as one of the treatment options.
IUI can be performed using donor sperm when donor insemination is appropriate. The suitability and required preparation depend on the individual clinical circumstances and applicable regulations.
IUI may also be considered when physical or psychological factors make vaginal intercourse difficult or impossible.
An IUI cycle is carefully timed around ovulation. The exact protocol can differ depending on whether treatment is performed during a natural cycle or with ovulation medication.
Your fertility history, menstrual cycle, previous pregnancies or treatments and relevant medical information are reviewed. Your doctor may recommend investigations to assess ovulation, ovarian function, sperm health and whether the fallopian tubes are open.
IUI needs to be performed close to ovulation. Depending on your treatment plan, ovulation may be tracked using cycle monitoring, ultrasound and/or other tests. If medication is used to stimulate ovulation, ultrasound monitoring may be required to assess follicular development.
Some patients may undergo IUI during their natural menstrual cycle, while others may be prescribed medication to stimulate or regulate ovulation. If fertility medicines are used, your fertility specialist monitors your response and adjusts the treatment plan when necessary.
A sperm sample is collected and processed in the laboratory. The preparation concentrates suitable, progressively motile sperm and removes components of the semen that are not required for insemination. Partner sperm or donor sperm may be used depending on the treatment plan.
Around the time of ovulation, the prepared sperm is placed into the uterus through a thin, flexible catheter passed gently through the cervix. The procedure generally takes only a few minutes and does not require surgery. Some people experience mild discomfort or temporary cramping.
Following insemination, you will be advised when to take a pregnancy test. Testing too early may produce an inaccurate result, particularly when medications used during treatment can affect the timing or interpretation of testing. Your fertility team will guide you on the appropriate testing date.
IUI can be performed using different treatment approaches depending on the patient's fertility profile.
Natural-cycle IUI follows your body's own ovulation. The fertility team monitors the cycle and schedules insemination around the expected time of ovulation.
In a stimulated cycle, fertility medication may be used to encourage the development of follicles and improve the timing of ovulation. Ultrasound monitoring is generally used to assess the response.
The choice between approaches depends on your ovulation pattern, fertility diagnosis and overall treatment plan.
At Miraai Fertility in Seawoods, Navi Mumbai, IUI is approached as an individualised treatment rather than a one-size-fits-all procedure.
Dr. Priya Khamatkar evaluates the relevant fertility factors before recommending IUI and guides patients through cycle monitoring, treatment timing and follow-up.
The aim is to provide appropriate fertility treatment while helping patients understand what to expect at each stage.
The likelihood of pregnancy with IUI varies between individuals and treatment cycles. Factors that may influence outcomes include:
Because fertility is highly individual, a clinic should not promise a specific outcome from IUI. Your fertility specialist can explain the factors relevant to your situation and whether another treatment, such as IVF, may be more appropriate.
IUI is generally a short, minimally invasive procedure. During insemination, a speculum may be used to gently access the cervix, followed by placement of a thin catheter through the cervix into the uterus. Some patients experience mild cramping or temporary discomfort, while others experience very little discomfort.
Your fertility team can explain the procedure beforehand and answer any concerns you may have.
The overall duration depends on your menstrual cycle and whether medication and monitoring are required. A treatment cycle may include:
The insemination itself is a brief procedure, but the timing leading up to it is an important part of treatment.
IUI is generally considered a low-risk fertility procedure. However, risks can vary depending on whether fertility medication is used.
When ovulation-stimulating medicines are prescribed, there can be an increased chance of multiple pregnancy. In some situations, too many follicles may develop and the treatment cycle may need to be changed or cancelled to reduce this risk. Fertility medicines can also rarely cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
Your doctor will discuss the potential benefits, limitations and risks before treatment.
Both IUI and IVF are fertility treatments, but they work differently.
The appropriate treatment depends on the cause of infertility, age, fertility investigations and previous treatment history.
Even though IUI is less invasive than some other fertility treatments, the emotional experience can still be significant.
The waiting period after insemination, previous unsuccessful attempts and uncertainty around treatment outcomes can be stressful for couples.
At Miraai Fertility, patients are encouraged to ask questions and understand their treatment plan clearly. Open communication with your fertility care team can help you approach each stage with realistic expectations and greater confidence.
MBBS, MS (OBGYN), FRM
Fellowship in Reproductive Medicine
Director, Advanced Fertility Care Center
Dr. Priya Khamatkar is a fertility specialist providing personalised and evidence-based fertility care. With expertise in fertility evaluation and assisted reproductive techniques, she works closely with couples to understand their fertility concerns and identify suitable treatment options.
Her approach combines clinical expertise with compassionate communication, helping patients understand their choices and feel supported throughout their fertility journey.
If you are considering IUI treatment in Navi Mumbai, a personalised consultation can help you understand whether IUI is suitable for your fertility needs and what the next steps may involve.
Shop 1 & 2, The Signature, near HP Petrol Pump,
Seawoods West, Sector 44A, Seawoods,
Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400706
MBBS, MS (OBGYN), FRM
Director & Lead Fertility Specialist