Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI stands for "intrauterine insemination", a process where processed sperm is inserted directly into the uterus to aid fertilisation.

The IUI process at Cada involves several key steps:

1. Fertility Check: Our comprehensive fertility analysis encompasses techniques like ultrasound, semen analysis, and diagnostic blood tests. Employing cutting-edge laboratory technology, we deliver optimal outcomes, laying the foundation for your treatment plan.

2. Kick-Off IUI: IUI can be performed during a natural menstrual cycle or a medically stimulated cycle. For the latter, medications may be prescribed to encourage egg production.

3. Ultrasound and ovulation: If you are taking medication for egg maturation, we will conduct regular ultrasound examinations to monitor egg development. Ovulation will then be induced at the optimal time for insemination. In natural cycles, ovulation timing is determined using an ovulation test.

4. Insemination: The partner sperm, prepared and selected for optimal health, are introduced into the uterus through a slender catheter, coinciding with the release of eggs. A pregnancy test is scheduled two weeks post-insemination to check for successful fertilisation.

While individual criteria may vary, general requirements for IUI include:

1. Patent fallopian tubes: A woman's fallopian tubes must be patent for the embryo to implant in the uterus. A gentle fallopian tube patency test (HyCoSy) can be used to determine whether the fallopian tubes are blocked or patent.

2. Ovulation: In order to perform an IUI, the woman must ovulate, either spontaneously or hormonally induced. Ovulation is triggered approximately 24-36 hours before insemination. The exact time is determined by the attending physician.

3. Uterine lining: The uterine lining must be thick enough for the embryo to implant. The endometrium should be at least 7 mm thick for implantation to be successful.

4. Sperm quality: There should be sufficient fertilisable sperm in the ejaculate. In addition, at least 40% of the sperm should be motile and present in sufficient quantity (at least 15 million per millilitre).

Our fertility specialists will be happy to advise you individually in an initial consultation.

The success rate for IUI varies, averaging between 10-20% per cycle. Factors such as the woman’s age and the specific infertility causes influence these rates. Our specialists can provide a personalised success rate estimation during your consultation.

As IUI is minimally invasive and therefore less complex than IVF, the costs are also lower. On average, an IUI treatment including medication, consultation, examinations, etc. costs between CHF 1,000 and 1,500. At Cada, we focus on cost transparency and offer a fixed price for IUI treatment. This price includes all costs, pregnancy tests, consultations and analyses. This means that our patients know from the outset what costs they will incur and can go through their fertility treatment with peace of mind. For detailed information on our prices and financing options, we will be happy to advise you during an initial consultation.

IUI treatment is usually considered when couples have minimal fertility restrictions and are looking for their first treatment option. This is particularly relevant if the sperm quality is slightly impaired. In addition, IUI can be used in cases of cycle disorders or when sexual intercourse is not possible due to physical limitations.

Not necessarily. It depends on whether the IUI is performed with or without prior ovarian stimulation. Ovarian stimulation is often performed to promote egg growth. Drugs such as clomiphene, letrozole or gonadotropins are used for this purpose. These medications contribute to egg maturation. The exact medication plan depends on the woman's individual situation and will be determined by your doctor at Cada.

There is no clear age limit for IUI, but it is usually recommended for women under 40. Older women can consider the treatment if they are healthy. Our specialists will be happy to assess your individual circumstances and make a recommendation.

An IUI treatment takes about two to four weeks. The process may begin with ovarian stimulation over 7-10 days, followed by monitoring of egg maturation, which takes about a week. Ovulation is triggered by hormone administration, around 36 hours before the IUI. Sperm preparation takes a few hours and the IUI procedure itself only takes a few minutes. A pregnancy test can be carried out around two weeks after the IUI. As the timeframes vary depending on the individual treatment plan, it is important to discuss the exact timing with your doctor.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are both assisted reproduction methods. IUI involves the insertion of sperm into the uterus, fertilising the egg inside the woman's body. IVF involves fertilisation outside the body. The sperm is brought together with the egg in the laboratory. The fertilised egg is then implanted in the woman's uterus.

Yes, the entire IUI procedure, from initial consultations and tests to the insemination itself, is conducted on-site at Cada. Our integrated approach ensures that you have access to our specialists and lab services throughout your treatment, with the convenience of accessing test results and treatment plans via the Cada app.