Intra Cervical Insemination with Donor Eggs: What to Expect During the Procedure

Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI) with donor eggs is a common fertility treatment for couples who are struggling to conceive. This procedure involves the insertion of prepared donor sperm into the cervix, bypassing the need for the sperm to travel through the vagina and cervix on their own. While ICI with donor eggs is a relatively simple and non-invasive procedure, it is normal to have some fears and questions about what to expect during the process. In this blog post, we will walk you through everything you need to know about ICI with donor eggs, from the preparation process to the actual procedure and what to expect afterwards.

Preparation for ICI with Donor Eggs

Before undergoing ICI with donor eggs, it is important to have a consultation with your fertility specialist. During this consultation, your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and order some tests to assess your fertility. These tests may include ovarian reserve testing, which measures the quantity and quality of your eggs, as well as a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to check for any blockages in your fallopian tubes.

Once your doctor has determined that you are a good candidate for ICI with donor eggs, you will need to select a donor. This can be done through a sperm bank or through a known donor, such as a friend or family member. The donor will need to undergo medical and genetic testing to ensure that they are healthy and do not carry any genetic diseases that could be passed on to the child.

Preparing for the actual ICI procedure involves tracking your ovulation cycle and scheduling the insemination for the most fertile days. Your doctor may also prescribe fertility medications to help stimulate the growth and release of multiple eggs, increasing the chances of conception.

The ICI Procedure

Intra Cervical Insemination with Donor Eggs: What to Expect During the Procedure

The ICI procedure is typically performed in your doctor’s office and does not require anesthesia. The donor sperm will be prepared in a laboratory, where they will be washed and concentrated to increase their potency. The prepared sperm will then be inserted into a small, flexible catheter and inserted into your cervix.

The procedure itself is relatively painless, although some women may experience mild cramping or discomfort during and after the insertion of the catheter. The entire process typically takes less than 10 minutes, and you will be able to resume your normal activities immediately afterwards.

After the Procedure

After the ICI procedure, it is important to rest for a short period of time to allow the sperm to travel towards the fallopian tubes and potentially fertilize the eggs. Your doctor may also recommend lying with your hips elevated or using a fertility-friendly lubricant to help the sperm move towards the eggs.

Within two weeks, you will be able to take a pregnancy test to determine if the procedure was successful. If the test is positive, you will continue to work with your fertility specialist for prenatal care. If the test is negative, you may need to undergo another round of ICI with donor eggs or explore other fertility treatment options.

Summarizing the Blog Post

Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI) with donor eggs is a fertility treatment that involves the insertion of prepared donor sperm into the cervix to bypass any potential barriers to conception. Before the procedure, you will need to undergo a consultation and select a donor, as well as track your ovulation and potentially take fertility medications. The ICI procedure itself is quick and relatively painless, and after the procedure, you will need to rest and potentially use fertility-friendly methods to increase the chances of conception. If the procedure is successful, you will continue with prenatal care, and if not, you may need to consider other treatment options.