Intra Cervical Insemination: A Revolutionary Approach to Male Factor Infertility

Intra Cervical Insemination: A Revolutionary Approach to Male Factor Infertility

Infertility is a common issue that affects many couples around the world. According to the World Health Organization, 10-15% of couples experience infertility, with male factor infertility accounting for 20-30% of these cases. Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI) is a revolutionary approach to male factor infertility that has gained popularity in recent years. This procedure offers a less invasive and more affordable option for couples struggling with male infertility. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into what ICI is, how it works, its success rates, and its advantages over other fertility treatments.

What is Intra Cervical Insemination?

Intra Cervical Insemination, also known as IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), is a fertility treatment that involves placing sperm directly into the cervix. This procedure aims to increase the chances of sperm reaching the fallopian tubes and fertilizing an egg, resulting in pregnancy. ICI is usually performed during a woman’s ovulation period when the chances of pregnancy are highest.

How does ICI work?

The ICI procedure is relatively simple and does not require any anesthesia. It involves the insertion of a thin, flexible catheter into the cervix, which is then used to deposit washed and concentrated sperm into the cervical canal. The process takes only a few minutes and is usually painless. After the procedure, the woman is advised to lie down for about 10-15 minutes before going about her day.

Success Rates of ICI

The success rates of ICI vary depending on several factors such as age, overall health, and the cause of infertility. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the success rates of IUI range from 10-20% per cycle, with the highest chances of success for women under the age of 35. However, the success rates may increase with multiple cycles of ICI.

Advantages of ICI over other fertility treatments

1. Less Invasive

Intra Cervical Insemination: A Revolutionary Approach to Male Factor Infertility

One of the significant advantages of ICI over other fertility treatments is that it is less invasive. It does not require any surgery or anesthesia, making it a more comfortable option for many couples. The procedure is also relatively quick, and women can resume their daily activities immediately after.

2. Affordable

Compared to other fertility treatments such as IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), ICI is a more affordable option for couples struggling with male factor infertility. IVF can cost thousands of dollars per cycle, making it out of reach for many couples. ICI, on the other hand, is a more cost-effective option, making it accessible to more people.

3. Fewer Side Effects

Since ICI is a non-surgical procedure, it has fewer side effects compared to other fertility treatments. Women may experience some mild cramping, spotting, or discomfort, but these usually go away within a day or two. The risk of infection is also lower with ICI, making it a safer option for both the woman and the baby.

4. Can be used with donor sperm

ICI can also be used with donor sperm, making it an option for same-sex couples or single women who want to conceive. This procedure allows women to become pregnant without the need for a male partner.

5. Higher success rates for male factor infertility

ICI has shown to have higher success rates for male factor infertility compared to other fertility treatments. This is because the sperm is placed closer to the fallopian tubes, increasing the chances of fertilization. It is also a better option for couples with low sperm count or poor sperm mobility.

In conclusion, Intra Cervical Insemination is a revolutionary approach to male factor infertility that offers a less invasive and more affordable option for couples struggling to conceive. With its many advantages and higher success rates for male factor infertility, ICI has become a popular choice among couples hoping to start a family. If you are struggling with infertility, it is essential to consult with a fertility specialist to determine if ICI is the right option for you.