Ovarian stimulation with our without intra uterine insemination (IUI)

The ovarian stimulation allows overcoming a weakness preserved by the ovulation signal (hormonal signal).  It is done when medication is taken (Clomid) and / or gonadotropin injections (Gonal-F, Puregon, Menopur, Merional, etc.).  Check-ups (Echography and hormonal dosages) aim to adjust the applied stimulation and to avoid multiple pregnancy (twins).

The insemination (IUI) is launched after the ovulation process. Once the date and time of insemination is determined by the doctor in charge, the Andrology laboratory (LABR) gives an appointment to the male partner for the sperm donation purposes (by masturbation) one or two hours before the insemination should take place.

The sperm needs to be prepared in the laboratory in order to select the mobile sperm and eliminate the seminal plasma. A medical doctor performs the insemination with the patient in gynaecologic position. The procedure is painless and it consists in introducing the sperm suspension inside the uterus using a fine plastic catheter attached to a syringe.  If IUI is not necessary (good quality sperm), the couple with have intercourse after the ovulation process has started.  In rare cases (after uterus surgery) the IUI may be performed during a spontaneous cycle.

The pregnancy chances per stimulation – insemination are of approximately 15 to 20% cycle.