IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is one of the most widely chosen fertility treatments for couples who want a simpler, more affordable, and minimally invasive path to pregnancy. It is often the first recommended step in assisted reproduction, especially when infertility is mild or unexplained. Under the expert care of Dr. Sayali Shitole – Best IVF Specialist in Pune—many couples begin their parenthood journey with confidence. With 8+ Years of experience, she provides structured evaluation, personalised planning, and transparent guidance on IUI treatment in Pune and IVF treatment in Pune, helping couples choose what suits their medical condition best.
What Is IUI Treatment?
IUI treatment involves placing washed, highly motile sperm directly into the woman’s uterus during ovulation. This increases the chances of sperm meeting the egg naturally.
It is an effective, low-cost option for couples dealing with:
- Mild male infertility
- Irregular ovulation
- Unexplained infertility
- Cervical issues
- Ejaculation problems
- PCOS-associated ovulation disorders
Unlike IVF, IUI works with the body’s natural fertilization process while giving sperm a better chance of reaching the egg.
How IUI Treatment Works—Step-by-Step Process
Below is a complete breakdown of what couples experience during IUI under experts like Dr. Sayali Shitole—the best IVF specialist in Pune.
Step 1 – Initial Consultation & Fertility Evaluation
IUI begins with a detailed check-up of both partners. This includes:
- Hormonal tests (FSH, LH, AMH)
- Semen analysis
- Ultrasound for follicle condition
- Thyroid and prolactin levels
- Ovulation pattern study
These tests determine if IUI is the right choice or if IVF treatment in Pune will be more suitable.
Step 2 – Ovulation Induction (If Needed)
For women who don’t ovulate regularly—especially those with PCOS—medications may be given to stimulate egg growth. These can include:
- Oral tablets
- Hormonal injections
- Trigger shots
Ovulation induction ensures the ovaries release a healthy egg at the right time.
Step 3 – Follicle Monitoring
Ultrasound scans track the growth of follicles (egg sacs) to ensure proper timing.
Follicular monitoring is crucial for IUI success, as precise timing is the most important factor.
Step 4 – Sperm Washing and Preparation
The male partner’s semen sample is processed in the lab. “Washing” removes weak sperm, dead cells, bacteria, and impurities while isolating the fastest, healthiest sperms.
This significantly improves fertilisation chances.
Step 5 – Insemination Procedure
A thin catheter is inserted into the uterus to deposit prepared sperm. The procedure is:
- Painless
- Quick (10–15 minutes)
- Done without anesthesia
- Minimal risk
- Followed by brief rest
Step 6 – Luteal Phase Support
Depending on hormonal needs, medications may be given to support implantation and early pregnancy.
Who Should Consider IUI Treatment?
IUI is particularly beneficial in:
Mild Male Infertility
Low sperm motility or mildly reduced sperm count can be corrected with sperm processing.
Ovulation Disorders
Women with irregular cycles or PCOS benefit greatly from monitored IUI.
Couples with Unexplained Infertility
When tests are normal but pregnancy doesn’t happen.
Ejaculation Problems
Men with ED or retrograde ejaculation.
Cervical Factor Infertility
Cervical mucus sometimes blocks sperm; IUI bypasses this barrier.
IUI Treatment Success Rate – What Affects It?
Success depends on several factors. Specialists like Dr. Sayali Shitole – Best IVF Doctor in Pune tailor treatment cycles to maximize pregnancy chances.
1.Age of the Woman
- Under 35 years → 15–20% success per cycle
- Over 35 → success reduces
2. Sperm Quality
IUI works best with mild to moderate sperm issues.
3. Number of Follicles
1–3 good follicles increase the chances of conception.
4. Timed Insemination
Precise timing of ovulation and the procedure is critical.
5. Underlying Conditions
Conditions like endometriosis or PCOS may affect outcomes.
Benefits of IUI Treatment
IUI offers several advantages:
- Affordable compared to IVF
- No anesthesia
- Natural fertilisation pathway
- Simple and minimally invasive
- Suitable for many common infertility conditions
- Short procedure time
It is often recommended by fertility experts as the first step before IVF.
Risks and Limitations of IUI
Although IUI is safe, it comes with some limitations:
Multiple Pregnancy
When stimulation leads to more than one follicle.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation (Rare)
Especially in PCOS; monitoring reduces risk.
Lower Success in Severe Infertility
In severe male infertility or blocked tubes, IVF treatment in Pune is more effective.
IUI Treatment Cost in Pune
The cost of IUI varies depending on:
- Consultation fees
- Diagnostic tests
- Scans and follicle monitoring
- Ovulation medicines
- Sperm preparation
- Number of IUI cycles
Under a specialist like Best IVF Consultant in Pune, you receive transparent pricing and a personalised treatment plan that fits your medical needs.
When Should You Shift from IUI to IVF Treatment?
Some couples need to move beyond IUI to improve results.
You should consider IVF when:
- Age is above 35
- AMH levels are low
- Sperm count is extremely low
- Fallopian tubes are blocked
- More than 3–4 IUI cycles have failed
Here, IVF treatment in Pune offers a higher chance of pregnancy.
IUI vs IVF – Which One Is Better?
| Factor | IUI | IVF |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low | Higher |
| Invasiveness | Minimal | Moderate |
| Success Rate | 10–20% | 50–70% |
| Best For | Mild infertility | Moderate–severe infertility |
IUI is ideal for mild cases, while IVF is more powerful for complex fertility issues.
Final Thoughts – Your Path to Parenthood Begins Here
IUI is a hopeful, accessible, and effective fertility treatment for many couples. With the expertise of Dr. Sayali Shitole – Best IVF Specialist in Pune, couples receive advanced medical support, emotional guidance, and scientifically planned treatment cycles.
Whether you need IUI as your first step or IVF as the next step, the right guidance helps you move confidently toward your dream of parenthood.
With 8+ Years of Experience, trusted care, and a compassionate approach, Dr. Sayali Shitole continues to help hundreds of couples achieve healthy pregnancies in Pune.