Intrauterine Insemination
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is one of the most common fertility treatments. It involves placing prepared sperm from the male partner into the uterus using a small plastic catheter around the time of egg release or ovulation.
Indications for IUI include:
- Low sperm count or poor sperm quality
- Male sexual disorders such as impotence or premature ejaculation
- Cervical disorders
- Painful intercourse
- Unexplained infertility
Steps Involved In IUI
Step 1
Oral medicines such as Clomiphene or Letrozole, or injectable gonadotropins, are given to increase FSH and LH hormone levels. This helps the eggs develop in the ovaries.
Step 2
Serial transvaginal ultrasound scans are performed regularly to monitor follicle growth. This is known as follicular tracking. Usually, three to four scans are required.
Step 3
Once the follicles reach 18–20 mm, the patient is given an HCG trigger injection for follicular rupture and egg release.
Step 4
The andrologist uses special preparation techniques to separate the healthiest and most motile sperm. The prepared sperm sample is inserted into the uterus using a fine, soft catheter. The procedure takes only a few minutes and is generally painless. The patient is advised to rest for 15–20 minutes afterward.
Step 5
The couple is advised to visit the clinic after two weeks for a pregnancy test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers about Frozen Embryo Transfer treatment at Southern Gem Hospital Hyderabad.
What is Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)?
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) is a process in which cryopreserved or frozen embryos from a previous IVF/ICSI cycle are thawed and transferred into the uterus to achieve pregnancy. During an IVF/ICSI cycle, one or two embryos may be transferred, while additional good-quality embryos can be frozen at sub-zero temperatures for future use. This gives couples the opportunity for multiple attempts without undergoing the complete IVF/ICSI process again.
When are embryos frozen instead of transferred fresh?
Embryos may be frozen when surplus good-quality embryos remain after a fresh embryo transfer, when the endometrium is thinner than 7 mm and needs improvement before transfer, or when patients with PCOS produce many eggs and have a higher risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). In such situations, embryos can be safely frozen and transferred during a later cycle.
What is the process of a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) cycle?
During an FET cycle, a baseline ultrasound is performed when the patient gets her period. If the scan is normal, estrogen supplementation is started to improve the endometrial lining until a thickness of approximately 9–10 mm is achieved. Serial ultrasound scans are performed to monitor the lining. Once the endometrial lining is ready, progesterone support is added and the embryo transfer is scheduled. Monitoring during an FET cycle is generally less intensive than during a conventional IVF cycle.
Is Frozen Embryo Transfer successful?
Yes. Success rates for fresh and frozen embryo transfer cycles can be equally good. Some studies suggest that frozen embryo transfer may offer a slightly better chance of pregnancy in selected patients. Southern Gem Hospital, Hyderabad has a 70% IVF/ICSI success rate supported by a Class 100 Embryology Lab. Individual results may vary based on age, embryo quality, uterine health and other medical factors.
What is OHSS and why does it affect embryo transfer decisions?
OHSS (Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome) is a condition that can occur when the ovaries respond excessively to fertility medicines and produce a large number of eggs, particularly in patients with PCOS or PCOD. Performing an embryo transfer during the same cycle may increase the risk of severe OHSS. In such cases, the embryos are frozen and transferred during a later cycle when the risk has reduced, making Frozen Embryo Transfer a safer option.
Is Frozen Embryo Transfer available at Southern Gem Hospital Hyderabad?
Yes. Southern Gem Hospital, Hyderabad offers Frozen Embryo Transfer at its Basheerbagh and Banjara Hills branches. The treatment is performed by Dr. Sweta Agarwal, Director of Fertility and Gynaecology. For appointments, call +91 40 6658 5555 or +91 80964 14440.