Intra-uterine insemination (IUI)

What is IUI?

In treatment with insemination, the sperm is prepared (capacitated) in the laboratory before being inserted into the uterus using a fine tube (catheter). The chances of pregnancy are increased by bringing the man’s most motile sperm cells in high concentration close to the released oocyte at the right moment in the cycle. Contrary to IVF treatments, fertilisation in IUI cycles takes place inside the woman’s body. The treatment can be performed in a woman’s own natural cycle or in a hormone-stimulated cycle.

When is IUI performed?

IUI is performed when there is reduced sperm quality or when there is no obvious cause of the unfulfilled wish for children. If no sperm cells are present, we recommend the use of donor sperm for IUI. Therefore, this treatment can also be performed in lesbian couples or single women.

How does IUI treatment proceed?

To schedule an insemination, we need to determine the exact day of ovulation. Therefore, an ultrasound and a blood sample are taken between day 10 and day 12 of your cycle. Based on those results, the insemination is scheduled. This cycle monitoring can take place at the Heilig Hart Regional Hospital in Leuven between 8:00 and 9:30 in the morning or at the private practice. Before the insemination takes place, the doctor will take another blood sample with determination of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV and syphilis. Consent forms for the treatment should also be signed.

To trigger the ovulation mechanism, we use the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). This allows us to determine an even more correct timing for insemination. This hormone has no side effects and therefore does not increase the risk of multiples. It is administered through a subcutaneous injection that you or your GP can perform. The timing of administration is discussed when the appointment for the insemination is fixed.

After the insemination

After the insemination, you do not have to keep lying down and you may resume your normal activities. Note: hCG is a pregnancy hormone and can therefore cause you to test positive on a pregnancy test for 9 days. When your period does not come through after two weeks, you can take a pregnancy test. This can be done either through a blood draw or a urinary test. If the result is positive, we will monitor the pregnancy for a few more weeks. We provide follow-up until the first ultrasound at around 7-9 weeks pregnancy. If the pregnancy test is negative, you can contact the secretary or your doctor to make further appointments.

We keep our fingers crossed for a positive result!

Life Leuven

Your unique story, our personal and high-technology approach

Personal

Personalised care is at the utmost importance to us. Every story is unique; every treatment should be too.

We are highly aware of the emotional impact of the treatment, and offer the possibility of support from a professional.

Experts

We are a multidisciplinary team that includes highly specialised professionals, each with their own expertise.

Quality

Safety and quality are guaranteed by certified procedures and daily quality control

Flexibility

Flexible hours for cycle monitoring and consultations at our various locations make it easier to combine your treatment with your personal and professional life.

High technology

We continuously choose the most innovative techniques and treatments. From IVF, ICSI and oocyte donation to vitrification and PGT. We offer the possibility of high-level techniques for selected cases, such as the ERA test, endometrial scratching, etc.

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