Insemination, or intrauterine insemination (IUI), is one of the most common fertility treatment methods. During the procedure, semen prepared in the laboratory is inserted directly into the uterus using a thin catheter at the time of ovulation, and fertilization occurs naturally.
Insemination, or intrauterine insemination (IUI), is one of the most common infertility treatment methods. During the procedure, semen prepared in the laboratory is inserted directly into the uterus via a thin catheter at the time of ovulation, and conception occurs naturally.
It is often the first treatment option for mild male infertility or unexplained infertility, and is also the most common treatment method for single women and female couples. Insemination can be performed using either the partner’s or a donor’s sperm.
Insemination can be performed during the natural menstrual cycle or with mild hormonal stimulation to promote egg maturation. During the natural cycle, ovulation is confirmed using an at-home LH ovulation test.
The best results are often achieved when insemination is combined with hormonal support, carefully monitoring follicle development to avoid the risk of multiple pregnancies. The ideal number of follicles is one to two. Once the follicles are mature, insemination is timed based on ultrasound or ovulation test results.
Since fertilization occurs naturally in the fallopian tubes, a fallopian tube patency test may be performed before treatment to ensure the tubes are open. For insemination to be successful, it is important that there are enough viable sperm cells after laboratory processing—otherwise, the fertility doctor may recommend IVF treatment.
The semen used for insemination is collected on the day of the procedure and processed in a laboratory, where viable sperm are separated. This increases the likelihood of conception. If necessary, previously frozen sperm from the partner may also be used.
The procedure is quick and painless, and you can return to your normal activities afterward.
The success of insemination depends primarily on the woman’s age, but also on the quality of the semen and the precise timing of the procedure. When insemination is performed with hormonal support, the probability of success per treatment cycle is approximately 10–20%.
Insemination is usually repeated a couple of times. If no result is achieved, it is recommended to discuss further treatment options with a fertility specialist—often the next step is IVF, or in vitro fertilization.
Insemination can also be performed using donor sperm. Ovumia has its own sperm donor bank, where donor material can be obtained from healthy and screened Estonian men. If a suitable donor cannot be found among Ovumia’s own sperm donors, sperm can also be ordered from international donor banks—such as the European Sperm Bank or Cryos.
Prior to any fertility treatment involving donor cells, mandatory counseling takes place to ensure that the decision to use donor cells has been thoroughly considered from medical, psychological, and ethical perspectives.
Contact the clinic at the start of your period.
Option for a natural cycle
Treatment can be administered during your natural cycle, confirming ovulation with a home test.
If necessary, mild hormone therapy is used to support the maturation of one or two eggs. During this process, 1–3 ultrasound scans are performed.
If the ovulation test is positive, notify the clinic.
The semen is prepared at the clinic, and insemination is performed according to the fertility doctor’s instructions and schedule.
Take a pregnancy test 2 weeks after the procedure.
If the test is positive, an ultrasound will be performed 3 weeks later to confirm the pregnancy.
