Undergoing IUI Treatment - What to Expect

If you are considering, or have been recommended intrauterine insemination - also known as IUI - this video explains how the process works at Braetha. IUI is a less invasive form of fertility treatment, that may be suitable for a range of circumstances. IUI involves placing specially prepared sperm directly into the womb around the time of ovulation, which increases the chance of sperm reaching the egg. It may be recommended if you have unexplained fertility difficulties, or if you are using donor sperm as part of your treatment plan. Before treatment begins, your consultant will ensure the appropriate investigations have been completed. These typically include viral blood screening; along with hormone blood tests; and a semen analysis. An AMH test to assess your ovarian reserve may also be recommended if not previously performed. Once you are ready to begin - I will arrange an online consultation with you to explain the treatment process in detail. During this appointment; we review your consent forms; discuss your medication if a stimulated cycle has been recommended; and agree a treatment timeline together. This is also an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. When your period begins - you will contact the clinic on day one to book a follicle tracking scan with Mr Braithwaite, at our Harley Street clinic. This scan allows us to monitor how your follicles are developing, and determine the best time for your insemination procedure. When the timing is right, I will contact King's Fertility to arrange your procedure and will let you know the time and any final instructions. The IUI procedure itself usually takes only a few minutes. After your procedure, you will enter a two-week waiting period before taking a pregnancy test. During this time, please continue any prescribed medication, including any progesterone support you have been prescribed. Continue any supplements specified by your consultant, including folic acid, four hundred micrograms daily, and vitamin D. We advise a few dietary precautions during the two-week wait. These include: Washing all fruit and vegetables thoroughly; ensuring meat is fully cooked; and avoid unpasteurised cheeses, pâté, and raw or undercooked eggs. Limit caffeine to no more than two hundred milligrams per day, and avoid alcohol, smoking, and vaping. Gentle exercise such as walking is encouraged and can help reduce stress. Please avoid high-impact exercise, contact sports, and vigorous workouts. If attending an exercise class, please ensure your instructor is qualified and aware of your treatment. Also, please seek advice before taking any additional medication during this time. It is common to experience mild lower abdominal discomfort, period-type pains, or light spotting during the wait. These symptoms can occur whether or not the cycle is successful. If bleeding becomes heavy or is accompanied by significant pain, please contact the clinic or your nearest hospital if out of hours. On the date we specify, please carry out a Clearblue Digital pregnancy test at home using your first urine of the day. Please test on this date even if you have experienced bleeding. Contact the clinic with your result so that we can advise on next steps. I will check in with you during the two-week wait, to offer guidance and support. We also have access to a trained fertility counsellor, so please let us know if you would like a referral at any stage. Many thanks for watching - If you have questions about IUI or would like to discuss your treatment options, please contact us directly. We also provide an out-of-hours service for urgent medical concerns if needed.