Insemination, or intrauterine insemination (IUI), is one of the most common fertility treatment methods. During the procedure, laboratory-prepared semen is introduced directly into the uterus during ovulation using a thin catheter, and fertilization occurs naturally.
Artificial insemination, or intrauterine insemination (IUI), is one of the most common and mild fertility treatments. During insemination, sperm is placed directly into the uterus with a thin catheter duringovulation. Fertilization takes place naturally in the woman’s body. It is often the first treatment option for mild male-related infertility or unexplained infertility, and it is also the most common treatment for single women and female couples. The procedure can be carried out using either the man’s sperm or donor sperm.
Insemination can be done in a natural menstrual cycle or in combination with mild hormonal stimulation to promote egg maturation. In a natural cycle, ovulation is confirmed with an at-home ovulation test measuring LH levels. The best success rates are typically achieved when insemination is combined with hormonal medication, while carefully monitoring the development of follicles to prevent multiple pregnancy. The ideal number of maturing follicles is one to two. With follicle maturation, or ovulation induction, insemination is scheduled based on an ultrasound or ovulation test.
Since fertilization occurs naturally in the fallopian tube, a tubal patency test can be done ensure that at least one fallopian tube is open. A successful insemination also requires enough viable sperm after laboratory treatment. Otherwise, IVF is an option.
The insemination can be done with the man’s own or donor sperm. The semen sample is collected on the day of insemination, and it is treated with a washing method to separate viable sperm. This improves fertilization potential by reducing impurities. In some cases, insemination can also be done with previously frozen sperm from the partner. The procedure is quick and painless. You can continue normal activities afterwards.
“Everything went smoothly, help and support was always available. The staff was professional, kind and truly present. The treatment was personal, I felt seen and heard. I felt safe and knew I was in good hands.”
– Heli
The first step towards treatment is to book an initial consultation or call your nearest clinic.
The success of insemination depends on the woman’s age but also the quality of the sperm sample and accurate timing of the insemination. When combined with hormone therapy, the success rate of insemination per treatment cycle is around 10–20%. Insemination is typically repeated a few times, after which it is recommended to discuss possible other options with your doctor. If insemination treatments are unsuccessful, the next step is often in vitro fertilization, IVF.
Insemination can also be carried out using donor sperm. Ovumia has its own registered sperm bank, offering donor sperm from registered Finnish donors.
If a suitable donor is not available through Ovumia’s own sperm bank, we can also order donor sperm from international sperm banks, European Sperm Bank or Cryos.
Before beginning any fertility treatment involving donor gametes, patients receive mandatory counseling. This helps ensure that the decision to use donor gametes has been carefully considered from all perspectives.
Contact the clinic
Contact the clinic when your period begins
Treatment can be performed in a natural cycle, with ovulation confirmed by an at-home ovulation test. Treatment continues with steps 3 and 4.
Inform the clinic of a positive ovulation test.
The semen sample is delivered to the clinic as agreed. The sample is prepared and inseminated later the same day.
Take a pregnancy test 2 weeks after insemination.
Pregnancy ultrasound is done 3 weeks after a positive pregnancy test.
