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IUI for male infertility
Intrauterine insemination (IUI), sometimes called male artificial insemination, is an effective fertility treatment for couples facing male fertility challenges such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility.
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What is IUI?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a simpler fertility treatment compared to IVF treatment. It involves collecting a sperm sample, which is then specially prepared through a sperm wash to select the healthiest and most active sperm.
These sperm are directly inserted into the uterus around the time of ovulation, increasing the chances of fertilisation happening naturally.
IUI is less invasive than IVF and often recommended for couples facing mild male fertility issues or unexplained infertility.
Is IUI right for me?
IUI (or male artificial insemination) is often recommended for male fertility challenges, including low sperm count or reduced sperm motility.
Our fertility specialists will assess your specific situation, including sperm motility and count, to recommend whether IUI is the best treatment or if other options might improve your chances.
Many couples may need multiple IUI cycles before achieving pregnancy.
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Choosing a sperm donor
In some cases, IUI may not be enough to overcome male fertility challenges. We can help you become a parent using your own sperm using other treatment options, including sperm retrieval and ICSI.
You may also considering using a sperm donor. This can be a known donor or you can choose an anonymous donor through a licensed sperm bank or fertility clinic.
Choosing a sperm donor for your treatment is an exciting part of the journey, but it can be a daunting decision too. At TFP Fertility, we'll help to match with you with a suitable donor.
We'll provide information on your sperm donor's key characteristics, including:
Hair, skin and eye colour
Height and weight
Medical history
Occupation and interests
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Get expert advice on finding a sperm donor
Here's everything our fertility experts want you to know about finding and using a sperm donor.
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IUI success rates
IUI involves a sperm wash to select the healthiest, most active sperm, which are then directly injected into the uterus to improve the chances of pregnancy.
While IUI generally increases the chance of pregnancy compared to natural conception, success rates can vary depending on factors like sperm quality and the age of the person carrying the pregnancy. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) estimates IUI success rates to be about one-third of IVF rates—roughly a 1 in 10 chance per cycle—and these rates decline with age.
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Dr Pedro Melo
Verified clinicianConsultant Gynaecologist and Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine, TFP Oxford Fertility · Reviewed 29 July 2026
Demonstrated Experience
- ·Over 10 years of experience in fertility, reproductive science and fertility care.
- ·Trained in Lisbon and Paris before completing a distinction-level MSc in Clinical Embryology at Oxford and a PhD in Reproductive Medicine at Birmingham.
- ·Awarded the British Fertility Society Young Clinician Prize in 2022, and the RCOG William Blair Bell Fellowship in 2023.
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Ready to start your fertility journey? We're here for you
Speak to our patient support team for advice about your options and to book your first consultation with a fertility expert.