Insemination

Homologous and heterologous insemination

A distinction is made between homologous and heterologous insemination. In homologous insemination, the sperm comes from the woman's partner. In heterologous insemination, donor sperm from a sperm bank is used. There are 3 sperm banks in Denmark: European Sperm Bank, Cryos International and SellmerDiers and we work with all of them.   

When is insemination appropriate?  

• Male sperm quality is slightly reduced, i.e. few sperm or sperm with reduced motility in the ejaculate.  

• Lack of ovulation or irregular cycle over 35 days in the woman.  

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).  

• If the couple has not achieved pregnancy after 12 months of trying, and both partners have no other indications for infertility.  

• If the couple cannot have sexual intercourse.  

When is donor insemination appropriate?  

• Couples who have not conceived after IVF attempts with ICSI/TESE.  

• If the woman is single or lesbian.         

• The woman's partner is infertile, e.g. because of a lack of sperm.  

• The woman's partner suffers, for example, from a serious hereditary disease.  

Hormonal stimulation  

Insemination can be carried out during a woman's so-called spontaneous cycle, i.e. her natural cycle. However, the chances of a successful outcome may be better in some women if the maturation of the eggs is supported by low doses of hormones and the planning of ovulation with an injection.   

What are the chances of a successful outcome?  

The chances of a successful outcome in insemination depend on several factors - such as the woman's age and health, the partner's sperm quality and any hormone treatment. It is normal for women not to become pregnant after the first treatment. Therefore, several attempts are usually necessary.  

Are there risks or side effects?  

The risks of assisted fertilisation without hormonal stimulation are very low. When using very soft and flexible catheters, damage to the uterus during insemination almost never happens.   

Hormone therapy can mature more than one egg, so there is an increased risk of multiple pregnancy. Ultrasound scans performed before insemination can record the number and size of follicles fairly accurately, so that the risk of a multiple pregnancy can be assessed with relative certainty. If several large follicles are detected, it may be necessary to discontinue treatment to avoid a greater risk of multiple pregnancy.  

In addition, hormones can put a strain on the body. Very rarely, so-called overstimulation syndrome is seen. This can cause nausea, severe stomach pain, shortness of breath or fluid retention in the stomach. These complications are rare - during your pre-treatment consultation, the doctor will explain how the treatment works and whether there are any risks or side effects.  

It is important that you see a doctor if you get:  

• Severe worsening pain 

• Heavy and increasing bleeding 

• Fever 

• Increasing foul-smelling discharge 

You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience dizziness, shortness of breath, palpitations and flushed skin, as these may be signs of an allergic reaction.  

Avoid bathing and swimming for 24 hours after insemination as there is a small risk of infection. Otherwise, there are no precautions. It is important to live as healthy and as normal as possible. You can exercise, go to work and do the things you normally do.