Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide. It is characterized by hormonal imbalances and can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, and difficulty conceiving. For women with PCOS who are trying to conceive, there are various fertility treatments available, and one of them is Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI). In this blog post, we will delve into the science behind ICI and its impact on PCOS.
What is Intra Cervical Insemination?
Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI) is a form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) where sperm is placed directly into the cervix using a catheter. This procedure is commonly referred to as “artificial insemination” and is often used as a first-line treatment for couples struggling with infertility. ICI can be performed using donor sperm or the partner’s sperm, and it is a less invasive and less expensive option compared to other ART procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
The Process of Intra Cervical Insemination
Before the ICI procedure, the woman may be prescribed fertility medications to stimulate ovulation and increase the chances of conception. The sperm is then prepared in the lab, where it is washed and concentrated to remove any dead or slow-moving sperm. This process, known as sperm washing, also helps to separate the most active and healthy sperm for the procedure.
During the ICI procedure, a speculum is used to hold open the walls of the vagina, and a thin catheter is inserted into the cervix. The prepared sperm is then slowly injected into the cervix, which provides a direct path for the sperm to travel to the uterus and fallopian tubes. The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes and is usually performed in a doctor’s office or fertility clinic.
Impact of ICI on PCOS
For women with PCOS, the main issue regarding fertility is often anovulation, which is the lack of ovulation or irregular ovulation. This means that the ovaries do not release an egg every month, making it difficult to conceive. ICI can help with this issue by increasing the chances of the sperm reaching the egg for fertilization.

The Science of Intra Cervical Insemination and its Impact on PCOS
One of the major benefits of ICI for women with PCOS is that it bypasses the cervix, which can be a barrier for sperm in natural conception. The cervical mucus can sometimes be hostile to sperm or too thick to allow them to pass through. With ICI, the sperm is placed directly into the cervix, reducing the chances of it being affected by the cervical mucus.
Additionally, ICI can also help with timing issues in women with PCOS. As ovulation can be irregular in PCOS, it can be challenging to pinpoint the most fertile days for intercourse. With ICI, the sperm is placed directly into the cervix, increasing the chances of conception even if ovulation occurs at an unexpected time.
Studies have shown that ICI can significantly increase the chances of conception in women with PCOS. In a study of 30 women with PCOS who underwent ICI, 30% of them became pregnant after one cycle, and 45% became pregnant after three cycles. Another study found that ICI was more effective than timed intercourse in women with PCOS, with a pregnancy rate of 25% compared to 5% for timed intercourse.
Risks and Considerations
ICI is generally a safe and low-risk procedure, but like any fertility treatment, it does come with some risks. The most common risk is multiple pregnancies, which can be managed by monitoring and adjusting the number of sperm used in the procedure. There is also a small risk of infection or damage to the cervix during the procedure, but these risks are minimal.
It is essential to note that ICI may not be suitable for everyone with PCOS. Women with blocked fallopian tubes or severe endometriosis may not benefit from ICI, and other ART procedures may be recommended. It is crucial to discuss all options with a fertility specialist to determine the best course of treatment for individual cases.
In conclusion, Intra Cervical Insemination is a safe and effective fertility treatment option for women with PCOS. It can increase the chances of conception by bypassing the cervical mucus barrier and providing a direct path for sperm to reach the egg. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it has shown promising results in improving fertility in women with PCOS. If you are struggling with PCOS and trying to conceive, ICI may be a viable option worth considering.
Summary:
Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI) is a form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) where sperm is placed directly into the cervix using a catheter. It is commonly used as a first-line treatment for couples struggling with infertility and can be performed using donor sperm or the partner’s sperm. For women with PCOS, ICI can help with ovulation issues and timing concerns, increasing the chances of conception. Studies have shown promising results with ICI, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Risks include multiple pregnancies and minimal risks of infection or damage to the cervix. Overall, ICI is a safe and effective fertility treatment option for women with PCOS to consider.






