What is insemination?
Basically, artificial insemination is an assisted method of fertilization. This means that the sperm of the man is brought on the way to the uterus with some assistance. This procedure is also known as artificial insemination or sperm transfer.
Further information
Read more about the direct transfer of sperm into the uterus in the article IUI: Intrauterine Insemination.
How does insemination work?
The aim of insemination is to get as many potent sperm cells as possible to the egg at the right time. To achieve this, the woman’s cycle and ovulation must be closely monitored in advance. In medical practice, this is done using ultrasound and hormone analysis.
The sperm itself is usually obtained via masturbation.
Insemination: procedure
When the time comes, the doctor injects the previously prepared sperm directly into the uterus via a thin catheter.
If the woman stays lying down for a while afterwards and puts her legs up, this can improve the chances of pregnancy.
For whom is insemination suitable?
Whether you choose IUI or home insemination, the following physical requirements must be met by the woman and sperm donor:
- continuous, functional fallopian tubes
- well-built uterine lining for implantation
- ovulation must take place
- fertilizable and motile sperm cells
In principle, sperm transfer is recommended for couples without a serious cause of infertility (idiopathic infertility) or when direct sexual contact is not possible or should be avoided (e.g. because of HIV infection).
Heterosexual couples who have problems getting pregnant naturally can also get some help with self-insemination. If the woman is HIV-positive, home insemination can limit virus transmission to the partner. If the man is affected, however, the sperm must be examined closely. In general, couples with HIV infection should seek medical advice before insemination.
Insemination: chances of success
Advantages and disadvantages of insemination
Whether IUI or home insemination, the actual sperm transfer is relatively uncomplicated and painless. The financial expenses are also kept within limits. However, the woman’s monthly cycle must be closely monitored until ovulation is imminent.
In principle, insemination in the spontaneous monthly cycle is the lowest-risk of all assisted reproduction methods.
