Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) – Natural Conception with a Little Extra Help
If pregnancy does not occur despite regular intercourse at the optimal time, intrauterine insemination (IUI) may be the next appropriate treatment option.
What is IUI?
IUI stands for “Intrauterine Insemination.” It is a gentle fertility treatment in which specially prepared sperm are placed directly into the uterus at the time of ovulation, usually after ovulation has been triggered with an hCG injection, using a thin catheter.
The procedure is generally associated with minimal discomfort and takes only a few minutes.
Types of Insemination (IUI)
Insemination can be performed in different ways:
IUI in a natural cycle (without hormonal stimulation)
IUI with hormonal stimulation (e.g., letrozole, clomiphene, or FSH)
IUI using the partner’s sperm
IUI using donor sperm
The most suitable treatment approach is selected individually based on medical indications and personal circumstances.
Who Can Benefit from IUI?
IUI may be recommended for:
How Does IUI Work Step by Step?
Around the middle of the menstrual cycle, an ultrasound examination and, if necessary, blood hormone tests are performed to determine the optimal time for ovulation. If required, ovulation is triggered with an hCG injection. The insemination procedure is typically carried out 24 to 32 hours later, depending on follicular development and hormone levels.
On the day of treatment, a fresh sperm sample is provided by the partner or donor sperm is thawed and prepared in the laboratory. Approximately 45 to 60 minutes later, the processed sperm are introduced into the uterus using a thin catheter.
About 14 days after the insemination, a blood pregnancy test is performed at our clinic.
Success Rates
The chance of pregnancy per treatment cycle depends largely on age, individual fertility factors, and sperm quality. Your physician will provide a personalized assessment based on your specific circumstances.
Several treatment cycles are often recommended to improve the cumulative chances of pregnancy.
Cost Coverage Under Section 27a of the German Social Code (SGB V)
For married couples with a medical indication, an application for reimbursement under Section 27a SGB V may be submitted to their statutory health insurance provider. Requirements generally include:
If approved, statutory health insurance generally covers 50% of the treatment costs.
Patient Contribution with Cost Sharing Under Section 27a SGB V
Laboratory tests (LH, E2, P): approximately €55
Patient contribution for insemination (IUI): approximately €85–95
Electronic witnessing system Matcher®: approximately €29.75
Medications
Under Section 27a SGB V, medications are generally partially covered, resulting in a patient contribution. Certain medications, however, may need to be paid for entirely out of pocket. Estimated cost: approximately €55–455.
For women aged 40 years and older, unmarried couples, and single women, including those using donor sperm, treatment is generally provided on a self-pay basis.
The exact cost breakdown will be discussed individually during the initial consultation.
Transition to IVF or ICSI
If pregnancy is not achieved after several insemination cycles, we will discuss further treatment options together, such as IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection).
Do I need to prepare for insemination?
In general, no special preparation is required. You can continue your normal daily activities. We recommend avoiding alcohol and nicotine during the treatment cycle and throughout a subsequent pregnancy. Taking folic acid is generally recommended when trying to conceive.
If you have been prescribed an ovulation trigger injection, please administer it at the agreed time according to your physician’s instructions before the insemination. On the day of treatment, both partners should bring a valid photo ID.
Do I need to rest after an insemination procedure?
No physical rest is required after insemination. You can return to your normal daily activities immediately. If you have been prescribed progesterone support, please continue taking it as instructed until your pregnancy test. If the test result is positive, treatment will usually be continued. The pregnancy test is performed approximately 14 days after insemination through a blood sample taken at our clinic.
How many insemination cycles are recommended?
The recommended number of insemination cycles depends on factors such as age, diagnosis, and individual circumstances. Several treatment cycles are often advised