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Intra uterine insemination

Intra uterine insemination is the next step up from Clomiphene and Letrozole, and it can be used for quite a wide range of causes of infertility.
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Intra uterine insemination (IUI)

Intra uterine insemination involves preparing sperm in the lab, then putting the best sperm directly into the uterus in a procedure that’s a bit like having a cervical smear.

IUI is the next step up from Clomiphene and Letrozole, and it can be used for quite a wide range of causes of infertility.

In nature, only one in a hundred sperm that are ejaculated reach the uterus, so IUI works by giving sperm a head-start in their journey to the egg. IUI is usually combined with a medication like Clomiphene to increase the number of eggs ovulated from one to two or three.

IUI cycles typically involve:

  • some blood tests
  • 1-2 ultrasound scans
  • injections, which people usually give themselves at home.

IUI is usually offered as a course of up to four cycles. Around 40–50% of women aged 37 and younger have a child within four cycles, and the main side effect is a 10-15% chance of twins.

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When to seek advice early
  • If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.
  • If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.
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Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

Add your height and weight to calculate your BMI
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