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Intrauterine insemination is a modality of artificial insemination in which sperm are deposited directly inside your uterus around the time of ovulation. . IUI is recommended to treat many causes of infertility, especially when there is a problem with the sperm, such as low sperm count or low motility. IUI can be used in conjunction with stimulation of the ovary to mature more eggs (superovulation). IUI is also an option when the man is unable to ejaculate inside the woman's vagina (because of impotence, premature ejaculation, or other medical conditions). This procedure can be performed either with your partner's sperm or with sperm from a donor.
The semen is "washed" in the laboratory to separate the sperm from the seminal fluid, and to isolate the best spermatozoa with the highest motility and quality to be transferred to the uterus. Tthe seminal fluid contains substances that can irritate your uterus. Sperm "washing" may also improve the ability of the sperm to fertilize the egg.
The insemination takes only a few minutes. The doctor inserts small catheter through your cervix into your uterine cavity, and inject the sperm through the catheter into your uterus. You most likely will not feel discomfort during the procedure.