Intra Cervical Insemination for Gender Selection: An Affordable Alternative to IVF

Intra Cervical Insemination for Gender Selection: An Affordable Alternative to IVF

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in gender selection for couples who are looking to have a child of a specific gender. While traditional methods of gender selection, such as IVF with Preimplantation Genetic Screening, can be expensive and invasive, there is a more affordable and less invasive option available – Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI). In this blog post, we will explore what ICI is, how it works, and why it may be a better choice for couples considering gender selection.

What is Intra Cervical Insemination?

Intra Cervical Insemination, also known as intracervical insemination or ICI, is a process in which washed sperm is placed directly into the cervix using a catheter. This method is commonly used for artificial insemination in fertility treatments and can also be used for gender selection.

How Does Intra Cervical Insemination Work for Gender Selection?

In ICI for gender selection, the sperm is separated into X and Y chromosomes (female and male) in a laboratory. This process is called sperm sorting. Once the sperm is sorted, the desired gender is selected and then placed into the cervix using a catheter.

The timing of ICI is crucial for success. The procedure is typically done around the time of ovulation, which is when the woman’s body releases an egg. This increases the chances of the sperm reaching the egg and fertilizing it.

Why Choose Intra Cervical Insemination for Gender Selection?

1. Affordability

IVF with Preimplantation Genetic Screening can cost upwards of $15,000, making it unaffordable for many couples. In comparison, ICI for gender selection can cost around $2,000, making it a more accessible option for those who are looking to select the gender of their child.

2. Non-Invasive

Unlike IVF, which involves harvesting eggs and fertilizing them in a laboratory, ICI is a non-invasive procedure. This means that there is no need for hormone injections or egg retrieval, making it a less taxing process physically and emotionally.

3. Natural Conception

For couples who prefer a more natural approach to conception, ICI is a great option. The sperm is placed directly into the cervix, allowing for the natural fertilization of the egg.

Intra Cervical Insemination for Gender Selection: An Affordable Alternative to IVF

4. Low Risk of Multiple Pregnancies

IVF can often result in multiple pregnancies, which can be risky for both the mother and the babies. With ICI, there is a lower risk of multiple pregnancies, as only one egg is typically released during ovulation.

5. Gender Selection Success Rates

Studies have shown that ICI for gender selection has a success rate of 60-70%, which is comparable to IVF with Preimplantation Genetic Screening. This means that couples have a good chance of achieving their desired gender through ICI.

Things to Consider Before Choosing Intra Cervical Insemination for Gender Selection

1. It is Not 100% Guaranteed

While ICI has a high success rate, it is not 100% guaranteed. Factors such as the quality of the sperm and the timing of the procedure can affect the outcome.

2. It May Not Work for Everyone

ICI may not be suitable for couples who have fertility issues or other medical conditions that may affect their chances of conceiving.

3. It May Require Multiple Attempts

As with any fertility treatment, it may take multiple attempts for ICI to be successful. This means that couples may need to be prepared for multiple procedures and additional costs.

4. Gender Selection is a Controversial Topic

Gender selection is a controversial topic, and some people may not agree with the concept. It is important to consider the ethical implications and have open discussions as a couple before making a decision.

In conclusion, Intra Cervical Insemination for gender selection is a more affordable and less invasive option compared to IVF with Preimplantation Genetic Screening. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it is a viable choice for couples who are looking to choose the gender of their child. As with any medical procedure, it is essential to do thorough research and consult with a medical professional before making a decision.