How Acupuncture Can Support IUI
Intrauterine insemination, or IUI, has become increasingly common and often one of the first interventions offered to those struggling to conceive. IUI is the process of placing sperm into the uterus without intercourse. The sperm are “washed” and placed in sterile fluid, which is then concentrated to a small volume and injected, through a catheter inserted through the cervix, directly into the uterus. To increase the chances of success, doctors often prescribe fertility drugs for the week before ovulation to stimulate the ovaries to mature several eggs. There may also be a “trigger shot” to induce ovulation at a very specific time in order to coordinate the procedure most effectively.
Is IUI Right For Me?
Usually IUI is the first suggested treatment for those struggling with fertility. It is less invasive than IVF because eggs don’t have to get retrieved and fertilization occurs “naturally” inside the body. It is also much less expensive than IVF treatment.
IUI is most helpful in cases of low sperm count or poor motility. If sperm count is really low, IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be better. If there’s no sperm at all, you might consider IUI with donor sperm or sperm extracted directly from the partner’s testicle. And because the technique bypasses cervical mucus, it’s one way to address cervical mucus that’s hostile to sperm. On average, there’s about a 15 to 20 percent pregnancy rate per IUI attempt. It’s recommended that you undergo three to four cycles of IUI (when appropriate) before seriously considering IVF. Your fertility doctor will discuss if IUI is appropriate for you and your partner.
Tips For Sperm Collection
Studies have shown that pregnancy rates improved significantly in those who were abstinent no more than three days before collecting sperm for IUI.
Even though the sperm are about to get washed in the lab, getting a clean sample to begin with is important. And once you have it, you need to deliver it safely, or your efforts will be for naught. It’s helpful to follow these steps when collecting sperm:
Shower with antibacterial soap. If applicable, pull back the foreskin to wash.
Masturbate to ejaculation and collect the ejaculate in a sterile container according to the doctor’s instructions.
Keep the sample at room or body temperature (this is especially important in cold weather) and bring it to the doctor’s office within one to two hours at most.
The sperm are processed right in the doctor’s office, then inserted into the uterus. The entire IUI procedure takes about an hour. Two weeks later, you’ll know whether the insemination was successful.
Can Acupuncture Help?
Yes! Acupuncture can improve success rates of IUI by increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs during a medicated cycle, relaxing the uterus so it is more receptive to the treatment, and can address uterine spasms that may occur after the IUI procedure. Acupuncture simultaneously works to enhance the fertility drugs prescribed by your doctor, and offset side effects you may experience from the medications. Additionally, acupuncture reduces stress and anxiety inviting your body to rest.