Intra Cervical Insemination Explained: A Step-by-Step Guide for Couples
Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI) is a fertility treatment option for couples who are struggling to conceive naturally. It is a simple and non-invasive procedure that involves placing washed and concentrated sperm into the woman’s cervix during her fertile window. This method can increase the chances of pregnancy by providing a higher concentration of sperm closer to the egg. In this blog post, we will explain ICI in detail, including the process, success rates, and important considerations for couples considering this treatment option.
Step 1: Preparation
The first step in ICI is preparation. This involves a comprehensive consultation with a fertility specialist to determine if this treatment is suitable for you and your partner. The specialist will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and order any necessary tests. These tests may include blood work, ultrasound, and semen analysis for the male partner. The specialist will also provide guidance on timing and ovulation tracking to ensure the ICI procedure is performed during the woman’s most fertile days.
Step 2: Sperm Collection and Preparation
The next step is sperm collection and preparation. The male partner will be asked to provide a semen sample through masturbation. If the partner has difficulty producing a sample, a special condom can be used during intercourse to collect the sperm. The semen sample is then washed and concentrated in the lab to remove any impurities and increase the number of healthy sperm.
Step 3: Insemination
On the day of the insemination, the washed and concentrated sperm is placed into the woman’s cervix, which is the opening of the uterus. This procedure is typically performed in a fertility clinic or doctor’s office and does not require any anesthesia. The sperm is inserted using a thin, flexible catheter, and the entire process takes only a few minutes.
Intra Cervical Insemination Explained: A Step-by-Step Guide for Couples
Step 4: Post-Insemination
After the insemination, the woman will be asked to lie down for 10-15 minutes to allow the sperm to travel towards the egg. Some fertility specialists may also recommend lying down with the hips elevated for a few minutes to aid in sperm movement. The woman can resume normal activities after the procedure, but it is recommended to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for the rest of the day.
Success Rates
The success rates of ICI vary depending on factors such as the age of the woman, the cause of infertility, and the quality of the sperm. On average, ICI has a success rate of 10-15% per cycle, which means it may take multiple cycles for a pregnancy to occur. However, the success rates can be higher for couples with unexplained infertility, where no clear cause of infertility can be identified.
Important Considerations
Before considering ICI, it is essential to discuss all the potential risks and benefits with a fertility specialist. Some possible risks include infection, allergic reaction, and potential damage to the cervix. In addition, ICI does not guarantee pregnancy, and it is important to have realistic expectations and be prepared for multiple cycles if needed.
It is also important to note that ICI can be used with donor sperm for same-sex couples or couples with male factor infertility. In this case, the donor sperm is obtained from a sperm bank and undergoes the same preparation process as the male partner’s sperm.
In summary, Intra Cervical Insemination is a simple and non-invasive fertility treatment option for couples struggling to conceive naturally. It involves placing washed and concentrated sperm into the woman’s cervix during her fertile window. The process includes preparation, sperm collection and preparation, insemination, and post-insemination care. While the success rates may not be as high as other fertility treatments, ICI can be an effective option for couples with unexplained infertility or male factor infertility.
