Sperm/Andrology Lab: Intrauterine Insemination

Intrauterine insemination (IUI), the introduction of the sperm sample into the uterine cavity, may be done to increase the number of sperm in the upper genital tract.

In certain individuals this may increase the likelihood of conception. IUI may avoid cervical and vaginal factors preventing sperm entry or compensate for low sperm counts.

To introduce the sperm into the uterine cavity the semen has to be treated to remove chemicals in the liquid portion of the semen which may cause irritation of the uterus. There is a separate charge for this sperm preparation or "washing". The sperm wash must be done under the husband's name, so it is therefore necessary for him to obtain a Duke history number before the procedure.

The washing procedure takes about one hour. Sperm samples are most often collected in the clinic to assure a prompt delivery to the lab. However, they may be collected at home if you are no more than 30 minutes from the hospital.

All specimens should be collected by masturbation, not withdrawal. Do not use a lubricant. If there is a problem with the collection please notify the monitoring physician.

The insemination is a relatively simple procedure similar to obtaining a Pap smear, which can be accomplished in the clinic without anesthesia.

A small plastic catheter (tube) is used to insert the specimen into the uterine cavity through the cervix. A small amount of leakage or spotting can be anticipated after the procedure. This does not reduce the effectiveness of the technique. Once the procedure is completed there is no limitation of activity.

The procedure is done only once per cycle because the time of ovulation can be accurately predicted and the insemination can be timed to coincide with the release of the eggs.