Intra-uterine Insemination using Husband’s Sperm

Artificial insemination procedures usually involve ovulation induction which the process of follicle development is monitored by blood tests and ultrasound scanning. When ovulation has occurred, the male partner  is asked to produce a semen sample by masturbation. This specimen is prepared in our sperm laboratory to select only active motile sperm. A portion of it is placed high into the uterine cavity by mean of a fine catheter.

Intrauterine Insemination with prepared sperm is only useful when all other more natural means have failed and if one or both fallopian tubes are known to be patent, and if the husband’s sperm count s more or less normal.

Intra-uterine Insemination using Donor Sperm

Artificial insemination with the use of donor sperm may be indicated when the husband is azoospermia (no sperm in ejaculated semen). Couples will be very carefully counseled before such a procedure is embarked on. Donor semen is obtained from our sperm banking. All donors are very carefully screened taking into account their familial and medical history. Blood tests are carried out for blood group, Rh type, hepatitis and HIV. All HIV testing is repeated on the donor after 6 months and only when this is clear is the sperm released for use. Donors are matched as closely as possible for physical characteristics to the male partner of women receiving the donor sperm.