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    Insemination for Infertility

    Insemination for Infertility



    Topic Overview

    Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is the flushing of specially washed sperm through a thin flexible tube (catheter) directly into the uterus.

    Artificial insemination (AI) is the placement of sperm into a woman's cervix or vagina. The sperm then travel into the uterus and fallopian tubes, where they may fertilize an egg.

    See a picture of the Reference female reproductive system Opens New Window Reference Click here to see an illustration. Opens New Window.

    Insemination procedures:

    • Can be done with sperm from the male partner or a donor.
    • Are conducted during the most fertile part of a woman's cycle (ovulation).
    • Can be combined with superovulation (medicine or hormone treatment that promotes multiple egg production) to increase the chances of conception.
    • Do not require surgery.

    Insemination procedures can improve your chances of conceiving a pregnancy, especially when combined with Reference superovulation Opens New Window treatment.



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