Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI stands for intrauterine insemination. In this method, prepared sperm is directly inserted into the uterus to facilitate fertilisation.

Like all treatments at Cada, IUI follows a precise protocol:

1. Fertility Check: Our comprehensive fertility check incorporates methods such as ultrasound, sperm analysis, and diagnostic blood tests. Our state-of-the-art lab technology ensures precise results as the foundation for your personalised treatment.

2. Treatment Kick-off: IUI can be performed in either a stimulated or natural cycle. In a stimulated cycle, medications are prescribed to promote egg maturation.

3. Ultrasound and Ovulation: During hormonal stimulation, regular ultrasound examinations are conducted. Ovulation is triggered shortly before insemination. If no hormonal stimulation is used, ovulation is determined by an ovulation test.

4. Insemination: The partner’s sperm is prepared simultaneously with the release of the egg. The best sperm are injected into the uterus through a thin tube. A pregnancy test is conducted two weeks after insemination.

The success rate of an IUI averages 10-20% per cycle. Individual success depends on the woman’s age, the cause of infertility, and other factors.

Our specialists will be happy to provide a realistic assessment of your individual chances of success during a personal consultation.

An IUI cycle at Cada costs CHF 1,200, including medication and check-ups. Health insurance covers up to three treatment cycles per year.

Important: The choice of treatment should not depend solely on the cost. Depending on the initial situation, it may make more sense to start with IVF straight away so as not to waste valuable time.

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.

Please note that Cada currently facilitates insemination using the partner's sperm. We understand the importance of diverse family-building options and are working diligently to establish a partnership that will enable us to offer sperm donation services in the near future.

For mild endometriosis (stage I), IUI combined with hormone stimulation can increase the chances of pregnancy.

With advanced endometriosis, the success rate of IUI is lower, and other treatment methods such as IVF (in-vitro fertilisation) may be considered. We generally do not recommend IUI for endometriosis.

IUI treatment takes about two weeks. The process may begin with ovarian stimulation for 7-14 days, during which the growth of the follicles is monitored with regular ultrasound scans. Ovulation is induced with hormones about 32 hours before the IUI.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilisation (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 develops into an embryo and is then implanted in the woman's uterus.

The risk of twins or a multiple pregnancy with IUI, especially without hormone stimulation, is about 2%, which is the same as with natural conception. If two eggs mature during hormone treatment, the risk is slightly higher.