Treatment procedures for infertility problem - IUI, Intrauterine insemination(Part 1)

According to the Hong Kong Council on Human Reproductive Technology, a

couple may be classified as "infertile" or "sub-infertile" if pregnancy has not occurred after one year of regular unprotected sexual life. In Hong Kong, an estimated one in six couples has difficulty conceiving due to different reasons.

 

There are many reasons for infertility. Problems affecting male fertility include tubal obstruction or damage, semen abnormality or unexplained infertility while those affecting women include ovulation disorders, endometriosis and unexplained infertility. Age may also be one of the other factors affecting fertility.

 A Reproductive Technology (RT) procedure means a medical, surgical, obstetric or other procedures assisting or bringing about human reproduction by artificial means. RT treatment may be considered as one of the options to increase the chance of conception. Apart from RT treatment, other methods such as timed intercourse, drug therapy and surgery may be recommended by medical practitioners. You are strongly advised to consult your doctor for the most appropriate and suitable procedures if you intend to go through infertility treatment. (reference: http://www.chrt.org.hk/english/patients/patients_abo.html)

 

Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
IUI involves the placement of sperm (usually after processing) into the uterine cavity.

IUI is one of the assisted reproductive therapies (ART) that help couples with subfertility issues, particularly those with mild male subfertility and unexplained infertility.

 

Advantages of using IUI
By placing sperm artificially close to the site of fertilization, IUI bypasses many problems that can occur in the vagina or cervix.  It also improves delivery of the sperm to the egg, especially when there is a low sperm count or inactive sperm.  Other benefits include:

• Minimally invasive

• Less emotional commitment

• Quick procedures

 

Disadvantages of using IUI when compared to other assisted reproductive technologies

• Fertilisation cannot be confirmed

• Risk of multiple pregnancy

• Fallopian tubes must be unobstructed

 

 

Reference: fertility.com.hk

The information aims to provide educational purpose only. Anyone reading it should consult obstetricians and gynecologists before considering treatment and should not rely on the information above.