Summary:
Intra Cervical Insemination, also known as ICI, is a fertility treatment option that involves placing sperm directly into the cervix in order to increase the chances of fertilization. This procedure is less invasive and less expensive than In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), making it a more accessible option for couples struggling with infertility. ICI has been shown to have a similar success rate as IVF for certain types of infertility, and it also offers some unique benefits. In this blog post, we will explore the ins and outs of Intra Cervical Insemination and why it may be a better choice for some couples.
What is Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI)?
Intra Cervical Insemination is a fertility treatment that involves placing washed and prepared sperm directly into the cervix using a catheter. This procedure is typically done in a doctor’s office and does not require anesthesia. The sperm is placed near the opening of the cervix, making it easier for the sperm to travel to the fallopian tubes and fertilize an egg.
How does ICI differ from IVF?
IVF is a more invasive and expensive fertility treatment that involves extracting eggs from the ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory. The fertilized eggs are then transferred back into the uterus. On the other hand, ICI is a less invasive and less expensive option that involves placing sperm directly into the cervix. While IVF offers a higher success rate, ICI may be a better choice for couples with certain types of infertility, as well as those who want to avoid the more invasive and costly IVF procedure.
Who is a good candidate for ICI?
ICI may be a good option for couples with unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, or cervical factor infertility. It may also be a good choice for same-sex couples or single women who want to conceive with a sperm donor. Additionally, ICI may be a better option for couples who want to avoid the physical and emotional toll of IVF.
What are the benefits of ICI?
Aside from being a less invasive and less expensive option, ICI also offers some unique benefits. It can be done at home with the help of a fertility kit, making it more convenient and private. It also allows for a more natural fertilization process, as the sperm is placed closer to the egg in the cervix rather than in a laboratory. For couples with male factor infertility, ICI may also be a better option as it bypasses any potential issues with sperm motility or morphology.
What is the success rate of ICI?

Intra Cervical Insemination: A Less Invasive Alternative to In Vitro Fertilization
The success rate of ICI varies depending on individual circumstances, but it is generally around 10-20% per cycle. This is comparable to the success rate of timed intercourse and lower than the success rate of IVF. However, for couples with certain types of infertility, such as mild male factor infertility, ICI may offer a similar success rate as IVF. It is important to discuss success rates with a fertility specialist in order to determine if ICI is the right choice for you.
What is the process of ICI?
The process of ICI typically involves the following steps:
1. Ovulation tracking: In order to determine the best time for ICI, the woman’s ovulation cycle will be tracked through ultrasounds and/or ovulation predictor kits.
2. Sperm washing and preparation: The sperm will be collected from the male partner or a sperm donor, and then washed and prepared in a laboratory to remove any non-motile sperm and debris.
3. Placement of sperm: The sperm will be placed into the cervix using a catheter. This is typically done in a doctor’s office and does not require anesthesia.
4. Resting period: After the procedure, the woman will rest for a short period of time before going home.
5. Pregnancy test: About two weeks after the procedure, a pregnancy test will be done to determine if the ICI was successful.
Conclusion:
Intra Cervical Insemination offers a less invasive and less expensive alternative to In Vitro Fertilization for couples struggling with infertility. It may be a good option for those with certain types of infertility, as well as same-sex couples and single women. Although it may not have as high of a success rate as IVF, it offers some unique benefits and may be a more accessible option for many couples.
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