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IUI

A simple procedure that optimizes your chances of conception, IUI takes the guesswork out of trying to conceive.

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What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a treatment that involves inserting partner or donor sperm directly into the uterus during the most fertile time in your cycle. This increases the chance that the sperm will fertilize the egg and result in pregnancy. IUI can be a great alternative to IVF if your doctor feels it's right for you based on your unique needs and goals.

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How IUI works

IUI is all about timing. Dr. Kuo will work with you to monitor your cycle and ovulation for up to a month, which may include ultrasounds, home ovulation predictor kits, and potentially bloodwork. Most patients will also go on hormonal medications during that month to help with egg production. Your IUI procedure will be scheduled based on your testing.

Sperm Prep: You and your doctor will discuss beforehand whether you’ll be using fresh or frozen sperm. That sperm will then be “washed,” meaning the best-quality sperm will be isolated for fertilization.

The procedure takes about twenty minutes total and does not require sedation or anesthesia. A tiny tube containing the prepared sperm is inserted into the vaginal canal, through the cervix, and into the uterus. After the sperm is in place, the catheter is removed and you’ll be asked to stay laying down for about fifteen minutes before leaving the clinic. A full bladder is helpful for this procedure. You might experience some slight discomfort or cramping while the sperm is being placed, but the procedure is typically not painful. Afterward you may experience spotting for a couple days.

You’ll take a pregnancy test two weeks after your IUI procedure. If you are pregnant, we’ll schedule a blood test to confirm pregnancy and hormones. We know it can be emotionally challenging if the process isn’t successful the first time; however, it’s not uncommon to repeat IUI three or four times before finally conceiving. If you are not pregnant after 3-4 IUIs, we may schedule a visit to discuss other options. We are here to support you every step of the way.

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Is IUI right for me?

IUI is an option for:


  • Couples experiencing unexplained infertility, which is when you've been trying to conceive without success for six months or up to one year, depending on your age, and fertility testing hasn't led to a definitive cause.
  • Single women using donor sperm who don’t have needs that require IVF
  • Lesbian couples and any person assigned female at birth who needs donor sperm and plans to carry the pregnancy
  • Mild male infertility issues
  • Those experiencing endometriosis, or ovulatory or cervical issues
Pregnant woman

IUI Success with IVF Fertility Center

"Our beautiful, healthy daughter is now 2 years old, and we are starting to think about #2. We are over the moon with our experience with Dr. Kuo, and couldn't have found a better doctor to help us through this journey! "

IUI patient via Fertility IQ

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Paying for IUI

Though the cost of fertility care can vary, the good news is that you have options. We are committed to guiding you through your costs and financing options every step of the way. With IVF Fertility Center you will never be in the dark about cost.


While we are not directly in-network with any insurance companies, if you have out-of-network fertility coverage, our coordinators will contact your insurance company to verify the coverage and submit the cycles for the patient's reimbursement.

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You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers.

Most patients experience little to no pain with IUI. The discomfort it can cause is similar to a pap smear and there might be some mild cramping after the procedure. You and your doctor can discuss taking an over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen, to manage discomfort.

IUI is a low-risk procedure. If you take an oral medication to enhance ovulation such as letrozole or clomiphene, there is a slightly higher chance of twins than with natural conception or single embryo transfer IVF.

IUI is one of the most affordable services available to fertility patients. The estimated cost of an IUI at IVF Fertility Center starts at $2200, which includes an initial consultation and testing, sperm wash, and the IUI procedure.