Why do I need IUI?
There are several reasons why intrauterine insemination might be recommended as part of your fertility treatment plan.
IUI may be right for you if:
You’re a single woman using donor sperm
You’re in a same-sex female couple using donor sperm
You have a mild male factor fertility issue, such as slightly low sperm count or motility (movement)
You have unexplained infertility
You’re unable to have vaginal intercourse due to physical or psychological reasons
You’re affected by conditions such as endometriosis
Before starting IUI, we may recommend a tubal test to confirm your fallopian tubes are open and IUI is appropriate for you.
What are the types of IUI cycles?
There are two main types of IUI treatment cycles:
Natural IUI cycle
This intrauterine insemination method tracks your natural ovulation. We’ll carry out an ultrasound scan to track your natural cycle and when you are about to ovulate to determine the best time for insemination. The prepared sperm is then placed directly into the uterus. No ovulation-stimulating medication is used during the type of IUI cycle.
Stimulated IUI cycle
You’ll receive fertility medication to gently stimulate the ovaries and encourage the release of one or two eggs. This increases the chances of successful fertilisation while minimising the risk of multiple pregnancy.
Your consultant will help decide which approach is best for your needs.
Why choose BCRM for your IUI treatment?
At the Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine, we understand that no two fertility journeys are the same. That’s why we offer tailored, compassionate care at every step, giving you the best possible chance of success.
We’re proud to have some of the highest IUI success rates in the UK, thanks to our team of fertility specialists, dedicated nursing staff and state-of-the-art facilities. Whether you’re just starting or have already been trying to conceive, we’ll create a treatment plan that works for your circumstances, medical history and preferences.
BCRM is also a leading donor centre, offering access to carefully screened donor sperm if required, and we provide a full range of additional services – from fertility testing to in-house counselling and emotional support.
We’re here to guide and support you at each stage, combining clinical excellence with heartfelt care.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’d like to speak with our friendly team or book a consultation, we’re here to help.
Call us on 0117 332 5760 or complete the enquiry form below, and we’ll help you begin your fertility treatment journey.
Alternatively, contact us today for more information on IUI fertility treatment and how BCRM can support you.
IUI FAQs (frequently asked questions)
We want you to feel empowered when choosing IUI, so we’re here to provide you with the answers you need to any questions you may have.
What are the chances of getting pregnant?
The success of intrauterine insemination depends on a range of factors, including the woman’s age, the quality of the sperm being used and the reason for any difficulties conceiving. Your fertility consultant will assess your circumstances and advise you on your chances of success before starting treatment.
At BCRM, we’re proud to have some of the highest IUI success rates in the UK, giving you the best possible chance of achieving a pregnancy.
IUI vs IVF: Which one is right for me?
IUI is usually less complex, less invasive and more affordable than in vitro fertilisation (IVF). It doesn’t involve egg collection or fertilisation outside the body. For some, IUI is a good first step, especially when there are no complex fertility challenges.
However, IVF may be more appropriate if there are blocked fallopian tubes, male factor infertility or if IUI hasn’t worked after several attempts. Your consultant will help guide you through your options.
Is IUI helpful if the sperm is not the problem?
Yes – IUI can still be an effective option even when sperm quality isn’t the main concern. It may be recommended if you have unexplained infertility, endometriosis, or issues with cervical mucus that make it harder for sperm to reach the egg.
IUI works by placing a concentrated sample of high-quality sperm directly into the uterus, bypassing some of the natural barriers to conception. This means more sperm are available at the right place and time to increase the chance of fertilisation.
However, if sperm count or motility is severely reduced, other treatments like IVF or intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be more appropriate.
When does my donor sperm need to be at BCRM?
If you’re using donor sperm, your samples must be stored at BCRM before starting treatment. You’ll need to let us know when your cycle begins (day 1 of your period), and we’ll schedule your treatment accordingly.
You can find out more about donor treatment options at our Bristol Donor Centre.
How much does IUI cost?
Our current prices for IUI are:
Natural IUI cycle – from £995
Stimulated IUI cycle – from £1,200
We’re always transparent about pricing and will provide a clear breakdown of costs before you begin.
For full details, view our price list.
The IUI process: step by step
If you’re starting a stimulated IUI cycle, the treatment typically follows five simple steps.
1. Ultrasound Scan
When you’re ready to begin your IUI treatment, we’ll ask you to contact us on the first day of your period. We’ll then arrange for you to come in for a vaginal ultrasound scan, and sometimes a blood test, to check your baseline hormone levels and confirm you’re ready to start the next stage. At this appointment, we’ll go through your personalised medication schedule and explain when and how to begin your stimulation injections.
2. Mild Stimulation
You’ll start taking medication to gently stimulate your ovaries to produce one or more mature egg sacs (follicles). This is either a once-a-day tablet medication (Letrozole), which is taken in the early part of the cycle or injections (gonadotrophins). This medication is used to stimulate egg production. If you are advised to use gonadotrophins, this medication is given by injection just under the skin. Don’t worry – one of our friendly fertility nurses will show you exactly how to do this, and most people find it easier than they expected. We’ll provide a clear, written plan outlining the timing and dosage of your injections to keep everything on track.
3. Check Up
You’ll return to the clinic for at least one follow-up scan – and possibly a blood test – so we can monitor how your body is responding to the medication. Everyone reacts differently to stimulation, so we’ll tailor the plan to suit you. Once your scan shows a follicle is growing and reaching maturity, if you are using injections, we’ll ask you to start a second medication. This will prevent the egg from being released too early and help us time the insemination. At this point, you’ll take two injections per day.Based on your individual and scan parameters, you will be advised if and when you will take a final trigger injection to induce ovulation, and the insemination appointment will be arranged.
4. Sperm Sample
On the day of your insemination, a sperm sample is either produced fresh or thawed from frozen, depending on whether you’re using a partner’s or donor sperm. Our laboratory team will carefully prepare the sample to isolate the healthiest, most active sperm. The insemination procedure takes place later the same day. If you’re using donor sperm, the samples must already be stored at BCRM before you notify us of the start of your period.
5. Insemination
The insemination is a quick and straightforward procedure – most people compare it to having a cervical screening (smear test). A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina so we can see your cervix. Using a thin, flexible tube (catheter), we then place the prepared sperm directly into the uterus. The whole process takes just a few minutes, and you’ll be able to go home shortly afterwards.
6. Luteal phase support
In most cases, we advise the use of progesterone pessaries inserted into the vagina for luteal phase support following your IUI treatment. This will be personalised depending on your cycle type and clinical history.