Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

A treatment plan built around you

IUI is not the right fit for every patient, and Dr Rozen’s starting point is always a thorough assessment of both partners before making any recommendation. For those where IUI is appropriate, it offers a straightforward, minimally invasive pathway that works with the body’s natural cycle.

What is IUI?

IUI involves placing a prepared sperm sample directly into the uterus through a thin catheter, timed to coincide with ovulation. The procedure is quick and generally painless, similar to a pap smear, and does not require anaesthesia. It is also less invasive and more affordable than IVF.

Who might IUI be recommended for?

Couples with unexplained infertility or mild male factor infertility
Single women using donor sperm
Same-sex female couples using donor sperm
Individuals where a less invasive first step is appropriate before considering IVF

How does IUI work? The 5 step process

1

Ovulation monitoring

From around day one to 14 of your cycle, blood tests and ultrasounds track follicle development and hormone levels to identify the optimal time for insemination. Ovulation induction medication may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation.

2

Sperm preparation

A semen sample is collected and processed in the laboratory to concentrate the healthiest sperm. Previously frozen sperm can also be used.

3

Insemination

Once ovulation is confirmed, the prepared sperm is transferred directly into the uterus using a thin catheter. The procedure takes only a few minutes and does not require anaesthesia.

4

Post-insemination care

Hormone support may be provided to help maintain the uterine lining. Normal daily routines can continue, and a healthy lifestyle is encouraged throughout the waiting period.

5

Pregnancy test

Around two weeks after insemination, a blood test confirms whether conception has occurred.

IUI – Dr Genia Rozen fertility specialist

How effective is IUI?

IUI success rates in Australia are approximately 10-20% per cycle, and this may increase with ovulation induction medication. After six cycles, the cumulative success rate can rise to 60-70%.¹ IUI tends to be more successful for women under 35 with mild infertility and a healthy ovarian reserve. Conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, severe male infertility, and advanced maternal age are better suited to IVF.

Dr Rozen’s areas of special interest

IUI for unexplained infertility
IUI with donor sperm for single women and same-sex couples
IUI as a first-line treatment before IVF
Ovulation induction in combination with IUI

Patient testimonial – Dr Genia Rozen fertility specialist

“IUI is a genuinely valuable option for the right patient, and part of my job is making sure we’re recommending it for the right reasons. When it’s the right fit, it offers a gentler, more accessible path that I’m glad we have in our toolkit.”

– Dr Genia Rozen, Fertility Specialist, Genea Melbourne City and Frankston

Frequently Asked Questions

How many IUI cycles should I try before moving to IVF?

Most specialists recommend three to six IUI cycles before considering IVF, depending on age, fertility diagnosis, and response to treatment. Dr Rozen will guide you through the most appropriate pathway based on your individual circumstances.

How does IUI with donor sperm work?

IUI with donor sperm follows the same process as standard IUI, with the key difference that prepared donor sperm is used in place of a partner’s sample. It is a commonly used pathway for single women and same-sex female couples, and involves the same steps of ovulation monitoring, sperm preparation, and insemination. Donor sperm is sourced through a regulated program, and Dr Rozen’s patients have access to Genea Fertility’s extensive donor database. Counselling is required before proceeding with donor sperm as part of Australia’s regulatory requirements.

IUI vs IVF: which is right for you?

Both IUI and IVF are effective fertility treatments, but they work differently and suit different patients. IUI is less invasive, more affordable, and works with the body’s natural cycle by placing prepared sperm directly into the uterus around ovulation. It requires minimal medication and no surgical procedure. IVF is more involved, requiring hormone injections, egg retrieval under sedation, and laboratory fertilisation, but offers higher success rates per cycle and is better suited to more complex fertility challenges.

IUI tends to be appropriate for women under 35 with mild infertility, unexplained infertility, or those using donor sperm. IVF is generally recommended where there are blocked fallopian tubes, severe male infertility, advanced maternal age, or where IUI has not been successful after several cycles.

The right choice depends entirely on individual circumstances, and Dr Rozen will always recommend the most appropriate pathway based on a thorough assessment rather than a default protocol.

Is IUI painful?

The procedure is generally quick and painless, similar to a pap smear. Some women experience mild cramping or light spotting afterwards, but this is temporary.

Can IUI result in twins?

The risk of multiple pregnancies is low with IUI alone. However, when combined with ovulation induction medication that stimulates multiple eggs, the risk of twins or multiples does increase. This is something Dr Rozen discusses with patients before treatment begins.

Does Medicare cover IUI?

Medicare covers part of the IUI cost, including consultations, some blood tests, and ultrasound monitoring. Donor sperm, laboratory fees, and the procedure itself may involve out-of-pocket expenses. Dr Rozen’s team can provide guidance on costs and rebates at your initial consultation.

Can lifestyle changes improve IUI success rates?

Yes. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol and caffeine, avoiding smoking, and managing stress can all support fertility and improve the chances of a successful outcome.