Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Treatment & Procedure

The procedure is relatively easy, non-invasive, and an inexpensive fertility treatment. Success rates of IUI typically range from 5-15% per cycle, and most people will require multiple cycles before a healthy pregnancy will occur.

Is IUI Treatment Suitable for You?

Suitability for IUI treatment in Singapore

To determine if intrauterine insemination (IUI) is suitable for you, both you and your fertility specialist will undergo a detailed fertility diagnosis. This typically includes:

  • Hormonal blood tests
  • Ultrasound scans
  • Semen analysis

These diagnostic steps help identify whether IUI or another assisted reproductive technique is most appropriate for your situation.

IUI may be recommended for:

  • Unexplained infertility
  • Mild male factor infertility (e.g., slightly low sperm count or motility)
  • Cervical scarring or abnormalities
  • Mild endometriosis
  • Irregular or absent ovulation
  • No pregnancy after ovulation induction
  • Use of donor sperm (single women, same-sex couples)

IUI may not be suitable if:

  • Severe male factor infertility (total motile sperm count <5 million)
  • Both fallopian tubes are blocked for the female partner, as highlighted in PubMed Central (PMC).

In these cases, your specialist may recommend IVF or other advanced fertility treatments.

Did you know?
About 10–20% of couples with unexplained infertility may conceive with IUI within three cycles, especially when combined with ovulation induction. (Asian Journal of Medical Sciences, 2022)(PubMed Central, 2020)

What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a minimally invasive assisted fertility procedure. During IUI, a concentrated sample of sperm is placed directly into the uterus using a thin, flexible catheter. This brings sperm closer to the egg, increasing the likelihood of fertilisation and pregnancy.

Key benefits of IUI:

  • Less invasive than IVF
  • Lower cost per cycle (see cost section below)
  • Can be performed with or without fertility medications

The procedure and cycle of IUI treatment

Step-by-Step IUI Process

CYCLE DAY WHAT HAPPENS
Day 1 Contact your fertility clinic in Singapore at the start of menstruation
Days 2–4 Blood work and ultrasound to confirm cycle start and check for ovarian cysts
Days 2–4 Possible prescription of oral, vaginal, or injectable medications
Days 10–12 Additional blood work and ultrasound to monitor ovarian response
Trigger Day “Trigger shot” given to induce ovulation when follicles are ready
Insemination 36 hours after trigger, sperm sample is collected and prepared
Procedure Washed sperm is injected into the uterus using a sterile catheter
Post-IUI Rest for 10–15 minutes, then resume normal activity; pregnancy test in 2 weeks

Key points to know during IUI procedure:

  • The IUI procedure is usually painless and does not require anaesthesia.
  • Some patients may experience mild discomfort.
  • A full bladder may be requested to help position the uterus.
  • Anti-anxiety medication and progesterone support may be provided as needed.
  • The entire appointment typically takes about 1 hour.

How does the Intrauterine Insemination process work?

Detailed IUI Process:

Sperm Preparation:

  • The sperm sample is processed in the lab (“sperm wash”) to remove debris and concentrate healthy sperm.

Insemination Procedure:

  • A speculum is inserted to visualise the cervix.
  • The processed sperm is loaded into a thin catheter.
  • The catheter is gently advanced through the cervix into the uterus.
  • Sperm is injected directly into the uterine cavity.

Aftercare:

  • Patients rest briefly after the procedure.
  • Normal activities can be resumed the same day.

Success Tip:
Studies show that using ovulation-stimulating drugs with IUI can double pregnancy rates compared to natural cycles. (Journal of Ovarian Research, 2020)

What to Expect During the Intrauterine Insemination Process

IUI is a straightforward, outpatient procedure performed in a comfortable clinical setting. The process ensures the sperm is placed closer to the egg, optimising the likelihood of conception. Most patients report only mild discomfort, and there is no required downtime.

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IUI at A Glance:

ASPECTDETAILS
Procedure Duration~1 hour
Anaesthesia NeededNo
Pain LevelMild discomfort possible
Recovery TimeImmediate return to normal activities
Pregnancy Test2 weeks after procedure

When Should A Couple Consider IUI Treatment for Pregnancy?

Common Indications for IUI:

  • Unexplained infertility
  • Mild male factor infertility (low sperm count, motility, or morphology)
  • Cervical mucus abnormalities
  • Ovulation disorders

Other Considerations:

  • Age of the woman (success rates decrease with age)
  • Previous fertility evaluations and treatments

At Monash IVF Singapore, fertility specialists provide personalised assessments to recommend the most effective treatment plan for each patient.

Monash IVF Singapore: One of The Best IUI Centre for Artificial Insemination Procedures

Monash IVF Singapore is a leading clinic for artificial insemination (IUI) treatments, offering:

High IUI Pregnancy Success Rates

Monash IVF Singapore achieves strong IUI success rates through meticulous protocols and advanced techniques. Our commitment to quality care and ongoing support maximises your chances of conception throughout your fertility journey.

Experienced IUI Doctors & Specialists:

Our dedicated fertility specialists are among the leading IUI doctors in Singapore. Their extensive experience and compassionate approach ensure every patient receives attentive, personalised care to optimise treatment outcomes.

Advanced IUI Technology:

We utilise the latest technology for sperm preparation and precise insemination timing. This enables us to deliver tailored fertility care and improve the likelihood of a successful IUI outcome.

Finding the Right IUI Specialist Clinic for Your Fertility Treatment

What to Look For in IUI Centre:

  • Experience and qualifications of fertility specialists
  • Success rates and patient outcomes
  • Personalised care and support
  • Availability of advanced fertility treatments

Monash IVF Singapore offers expert guidance and tailored treatment plans, ensuring each patient receives the highest standard of care throughout their fertility journey. Learn more about our specialists and their expertise by visiting our Specialists Page.

Schedule Your IUI Consultation with Our Doctors in Singapore Today

Monash IVF Singapore combines clinical expertise, advanced technology, and personalised care to deliver exceptional intrauterine insemination treatments. Whether you are starting IUI or seeking a tailored solution for your fertility challenges, our team is ready to support you.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward parenthood.

FAQs about IUI Procedure in Singapore

The cost of IUI treatment depends on the doctor’s treatment plan prescribed for you. For more information about our IUI cost in Singapore, click here.

Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the IUI procedure.

Look for experienced fertility specialists at a centre with transparent success rates, and a patient-centred approach. Monash IVF Singapore is known for its expertise, advanced technology, and personalised care, making it a leading choice for IUI treatment

IUI is generally safe, but there is a small risk of infection, spotting, or ovarian hyperstimulation if fertility medications are used. Your doctor will discuss potential risks and how they are managed during your consultation.

An IUI cycle usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks from the start of your menstrual cycle to insemination, with a pregnancy test done about 2 weeks after the procedure.