Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
in Singapore
What Is IUI and How Does IUI Work?
Intrauterine insemination, or IUI, is a fertility treatment in which prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation.
IUI may improve the chance of pregnancy by bringing more motile sperm closer to the egg. This procedure is simpler and less invasive than In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).
Is IUI the Correct
Treatment for You?
Because fertilisation still takes place in the fallopian tube, IUI generally requires at least one open and functioning tube. It may also be less suitable when sperm count or movement is severely affected.
IUI may be considered in several situations.
What Happens During an IUI Cycle?
A typical cycle may involve the following steps.
1. Initial Consultation
Dr Chua will review the fertility history and investigations of both partners before deciding the most appropriate next step.
2. Ovulation Monitoring
IUI may take place during a natural menstrual cycle or with fertility medication.
Ultrasound scans, ovulation tests and/or blood tests may be used to monitor follicle development and determine when ovulation will occur. A trigger injection is given to boost ovulation.
When medication is used, monitoring also helps Dr Chua assess whether too many follicles are developing.
3. Sperm Preparation
A semen sample is usually collected on the day of the procedure, although frozen sperm may be used in some circumstances.
The sample is processed in the laboratory to concentrate suitable moving sperm and remove seminal fluid and other material.
4. Insemination
A speculum is placed into the vagina so that the cervix can be seen. The prepared sperm is then passed through the cervix and into the uterus using a thin catheter.
The insemination itself usually takes only a few minutes and does not normally require anaesthesia.
Some women feel mild discomfort or short-lived cramping. Most can return to their usual activities after the procedure.
5. Pregnancy Test
A pregnancy test is usually taken around two weeks after the procedure.
Testing too early may produce an inaccurate result, particularly if a trigger injection was used. The fertility centre will advise when to test and whether any medication should be continued.
How Successful Is IUI?
IUI optimises the conditions for natural conception, and may improve the chance of pregnancy by approximately 5–10% compared with trying naturally.
The likelihood of success depends on factors such as the woman’s age, ovarian reserve, sperm health, the condition of the fallopian tubes and the reason for infertility.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
vs In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF):
Which Treatment Is More Appropriate?
IUI and IVF are different treatments.
With IUI
- The egg remains inside
the body. - Prepared sperm is placed into the uterus.
- Fertilisation must still happen naturally in the fallopian tube.
- The procedure is generally simpler and less invasive.
- There is no egg collection or laboratory embryo development.
With IVF
- The ovaries are stimulated
to develop eggs. - Eggs are collected from
the ovaries. - Fertilisation takes place in the laboratory.
- An embryo is transferred into the uterus.
- Suitable additional embryos may be frozen.
IVF involves more medication and procedures, but it also provides the fertility team greater control over fertilisation and early embryo development.
Are There Potential Risks With IUI?
IUI itself is generally a low-risk procedure.
When medication is used to stimulate the ovaries, more than one follicle may develop. This can increase the chance of a multiple pregnancy. There is also a small risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, or OHSS, with certain medications and treatment protocols.
Ultrasound monitoring helps Dr Chua assess how the ovaries are responding, how many follicles are developing and whether it is safe to proceed with the cycle.
How Much Does IUI
Procedure Cost
in Singapore?
The total may include:
Consultation and fertility testing
Ultrasound scans and blood tests
Fertility medication
An ovulation trigger injection
Sperm preparation
The insemination procedure
Medication after IUI
Patients should clarify if the quoted price covers the full cycle or only the insemination itself.
Medisave can be used for IUI in Singapore, subject to prevailing withdrawal limits.
Common Questions About IUI
Start With Understanding
The decision to continue trying naturally, proceed with IUI or consider IVF should not be based on assumptions.
It should begin with understanding your fertility.
A fertility assessment or a consultation with a fertility specialist can provide the clarity needed to move forward.