Intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatment is when the sperm from a partner or donor is injected into the womb around the time of ovulation. However, various factors including medical history and age can influence the success rates of this treatment.
At TFP Fertility, we offer IUI treatment at all our clinics and it is completely normal to have questions about its potential success, especially if you're considering this treatment.
At TFP Fertility, success rates for intrauterine insemination (IUI) vary, but for individuals aged 35 and under, the average success rate is approximately 15% per cycle.
However, it's important to understand that these rates can be influenced by several factors, including age and specific fertility issues. But don’t worry, these details will be discussed during your consultation.
As women age, the number of available eggs naturally decreases, which can impact the chances of getting pregnant. Therefore, IUI may not be the best option for individuals in their late 30s or over 40s. However, for individuals in this age group, there are other fertility options, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment, that can increase the chance of becoming pregnant.
It is also important to know, that if you or your partner (or donor) have fertility issues, such as blocked fallopian tubes, a low number of eggs, or male factor infertility, then IUI is unlikely to be effective for you.
Like any fertility treatment, success depends on various factors. Here are a few things to consider to increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle – Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, exercising, and getting adequate sleep can help your overall health and fertility. Plus being overweight can impact your ovulation and sperm production, so it is important to monitor this.
Avoid smoking and alcohol – Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can deteriorate sperm quality and for women, disrupt the implantation of the embryo. Therefore, making it more difficult to conceive.
Relax – Managing stress can impact your chances of conception and allow your body to be more receptive to treatment. So, engaging in activities that help you relax, such as meditation, reading, or taking a walk, can be beneficial.
Regular appointments with your GP – To ensure you are fit and well to undergo IUI treatment, it is important to have regular check-ups with your doctor.
Many individuals undergo multiple cycles of IUI treatment before achieving a successful pregnancy, so success rates can vary. Therefore, it's important to consider the costs involved.
Furthermore, The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) recommends that if you haven't had success after six cycles of IUI, you should contact your GP or fertility clinic. They can conduct tests to explore other options, such as IVF, which may be more suitable for you.
Speak to our patient support team for advice about your options and to book your first consultation with a fertility expert.