Intrauterine Insemination, another word for Artificial Insemination, is the procedure in which spermatozoa from a man, is directly injected into the uterus of a woman to facilitate fertilization.
Done to increase the chances of a woman getting pregnant, and alleviate the troubles of couples who find it challenging to have a child, it is the careful implantation of sperm from the man into the uterus of the woman. It essentially attempts to increase the number of sperms that get to the fallopian tube and increase the chances of fertilization. It is a much less invasive and expensive procedure for the in-vitro fertilization method. It is useful and applicable in the case of:
- Unexplained infertility
- Problems with the cervix
- Low sperm count
- Male erection and ejaculation issues
- Reduced sperm motility
Usually targeted for the ovulation period of the woman, it gets the sperm closer to the egg, cutting down on the time and distance it usually has to travel during regular intercourse and thereby increasing the chances for fertilization. Relatively routine and painless, it is often done without the need for anesthesia and can take under thirty minutes in a correctly set up fertilization clinic.
Intrauterine insemination is usually preceded and carried out in conjunction with other enhancing mini-procedures and tests which seek to create the perfect conditions for a successful procedure collectively. Events and typical activities that take place before and during the process include, but are not limited to:
- Regular visits to the medical centre by the woman, during her period -for blood-work, ultrasound, medication prescriptions, and instructions.
- Medications that have been prescribed being taken afterward.
- The carrying out again of blood-work and an ultrasound, a week into medication use.
- The determination of the beginning of ovulation by the doctor, depending on test results.
- On the day of the procedure, the male partner would provide his semen after which it will be washed (This is the process by which the seminal fluid and other debris in the semen are removed so the sperm can be concentrated and as pure as possible).
Because the success of the procedure is hinged on several other factors which either increase or diminish the likelihood of a pregnancy, intending couples are usually advised on best practices before and after the procedure. Every couple often has a different response to them, and this is dependent on several factors such as:
- Underlying Fertility condition
- Age
- The use or not, of fertility drugs
- The health and well-being of the woman
There are best practices and tips which increase the likelihood of fertilization and consequent pregnancy after a procedure.
Below are tips that help to increase the odds of pregnancy, through intrauterine insemination.
1. Choosing the Right Procedure
While there are various types of insemination, such as intra-cervical, peri-cervical, and vaginal-pool, intrauterine is often said to have a higher success rate. All details concerning the procedure should be adequately explained and understood for an easy and agitation free process.
2. Use Experts and a proper Fertility Clinic
Intrauterine insemination is a specialized procedure that requires the close monitoring of trained medical experts such as reproductive endocrinologists and fertility doctors. All processes and checks leading up to the method and even after should be informed and carried out by experienced experts. Sub-standard health facilities should also be avoided, and proper fertility clinics with the required equipment and tools are consulted and used.
3. Proper Research and a Fertility Assessment Test.
Choosing to opt for an Intrauterine Insemination should be based on adequate knowledge and recommendation. Though an option in the case of infertility, it is not the best for chronic infertility, infections, and in the case of older women. A fertility assessment test offers a good starting point as it is used to diagnose fertility problems through the careful analysis of health patterns and issues. It enables accurate recommendations on the right procedure and accompanying preparatory treatments and medications.
4. Healthy Dieting
Healthy dieting has been confirmed to increase the chances of fertilization. This is because proper dieting in the months before the procedure matters, and can necessarily make the process more efficient. An increase in the consumption of protein-rich foods is encouraged, while carbohydrate-containing fares should be reduced. Vegetables, grains, and fruits should be consumed more, as well as dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Lots of water should also be consumed to keep the body always hydrated and toxin-free
. Multi-vitamins containing folic acid should also be taken daily, as well as other supplements based on body needs and physician recommendations.
5. Reduce and Release Stress
De-stressing and relaxing after an intrauterine procedure mainly causes a difference in the reaction of the body. Evidence of stress capable of reducing the chances of a resulting pregnancy from an IUI necessitates complete relaxation after the procedure. Everyday activities capable of reducing stress and tension should be carried out, such as; long walks, taking an evening bike ride, gentle yoga amongst others. At all costs, stress emotionally, mentally, and physically should be avoided to let the body processes work fine and increase the chances of fertility.
6. Fertility Medication
Fertility drugs such as Clomid as well as the administration of HCG (Human Chronic Gonadotropin) and FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) may be used for ovarian stimulation, to trigger the maturation of the ovaries and the release of an egg or eggs. Ovulation accompanied by the production of more than one egg usually increases the chances of fertilization.
Cough syrups, such as Robitussin, help to thin out the mucus of the cervix to reduce obstructions to the movement of the sperm also.
7. Avoiding Smoking and Lightly Exercise
Smoking has been proven to reduce the chances of ovarian stimulation and in turn fertilization and it is best advised to be stopped. For a higher success rate, it should be avoided in the months leading up to the procedure as well as after.
Light exercising is also encouraged. Swimming, light aerobics, and walking should be carried out often, as they help the body’s respiratory system and blood circulation. Note that heavy and strenuous exercises should be avoided as they can cause uterine contractions that can interfere with implantation.
Intrauterine insemination is a low-risk treatment that is often a good option for women or couples trying to conceive. It should be done on the recommendations of a doctor and may just provide that valid route to fertilization and pregnancy. We want to hear from you, so do please give us some tips that have worked for you.
