Learn more

When to Add IUI to Fertility Treatments  
And Why It Boosts Your Odds

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a simple, effective treatment that concentrates sperm directly in the uterus, increasing the chances of fertilization. But when does it make sense to add IUI to your fertility plan?

When IUI Is

Best

  • Unexplained Infertility

    If testing shows no clear cause, IUI can help overcome subtle issues (like minor sperm motility problems or cervical mucus barriers).

  • Mild Male Factor Infertility

    Low sperm count or motility? IUI bypasses the vagina and cervix, placing washed, concentrated sperm closer to the egg.

  • Ovulation Disorders (PCOS, Anovulation)

    When combined with ovulation-inducing medications (Clomid/Letrozole), IUI doubles the success rate vs. timed intercourse alone.

  • Ejaculation Issues or Same-Sex Couples

    For couples using donor sperm or facing physical/psychological barriers to intercourse.

  • Hostile Cervical Mucus

    If mucus blocks sperm, IUI delivers them past this barrier.

Why IUI Works:

The Science Behind Sperm Concentration

  • Sperm Washing: The lab removes low-quality sperm, debris, and chemicals that can irritate the uterus, leaving a highly motile sperm sample.
  • Direct Placement: Sperm is placed inside the uterus, bypassing the cervix and cutting down the distance they must swim.
  • Timed Precision: IUI is scheduled within 24–36 hours of ovulation, when the egg is most viable.


Success Rates:

8–15% per cycle (natural cycles)

15–25% per cycle (with ovulation drugs like Clomid/Letrozole)
(Compared to ~1–5% naturally for some couples with fertility challenges.)

The Critical Role of Monitoring & Timing

For IUI to work, ovulation must be perfectly timed. That’s why monitoring is key:
✔ Ultrasounds – Track follicle growth to predict when the egg will release.
✔ Blood Tests – Check hormone levels (LH, progesterone) to confirm ovulation is near.
✔ Trigger Shot (hCG) – If needed, this ensures ovulation happens exactly when planned, so sperm and egg meet at the ideal time.


Without monitoring?  The success rate drops significantly—timing is everything!

Bottom Line:

IUI gives sperm a head start, but only if ovulation is perfectly timed. With careful monitoring, it can be a highly effective step toward pregnancy.


Next Steps? If you’re considering IUI, we’ll tailor a plan based on your cycle, hormone levels, and fertility goals. Let’s make every chance count! 

Get Treatment

Candidate Criteria

We often see patients who are recommended to undergo IUI treatment cycles when the sperm count is normal.  While this may be an option in unexplained infertility, it may not be the best option.  We also see couples who have been recommended to undergo IUI before a complete evaluation is done included checking the tubes.  IUI has clear indications and is used when there are male issues with count, motility and abnormal morphology that lower the Total Motile Sperm Count (TMSC). 


Is IUI Right for You?

IUI is less invasive and more affordable than IVF, making it a great first step for many couples. However, if you have:

  • Severe male infertility (very low sperm count)
  • Blocked tubes
  • Multiple failed IUI cycles (3–6 attempts)
    ...then IVF may be the better option.

Natural Conception With Intercourse

  • Recommended Total Motile Sperm Count: ≥ 20–40 million per ejaculate
  • Why? Sperm must navigate the vagina, cervix, and uterus—only the strongest reach the egg.
  • Borderline (10–20 million): Possible but may take longer; consider lifestyle changes (e.g., antioxidants, avoiding heat exposure).
  • < 10 million: Unlikely without treatment (IUI recommended).

Intrauterine

Insemination (IUI)

  • Ideal Total Motile Sperm Count (post-wash): ≥ 5–10 million
  • Why? IUI bypasses the cervix, placing washed sperm directly in the uterus.
  • Marginal (1–5 million): May attempt IUI but success rates drop significantly.
  • < 2 million: IVF with ICSI is typically recommended or donor IUI is an option.
Patients Speak from

Personal Experience

"I can think of a lot of great things that have been awesome in my life but having twins after so many years of infertility, after having so many losses...

I would recommend Dr. Coussons to anyone!"


– Christine

Connect with us

Ready to start the treatment process?

We offer direct honest answers and explanations in a practice where you always come first.

Click the button below to schedule your initial visit.


Request A New Consult