Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI) is a fertility treatment option that involves placing sperm directly into the cervix, bypassing the need for sperm to travel through the vagina and into the uterus. It is a non-invasive and less expensive alternative to in vitro fertilization (IVF) for couples struggling with low ovarian reserve.
Low ovarian reserve occurs when a woman’s ovaries have a reduced number of eggs or the eggs are of poor quality. This can be due to various factors such as age, medical conditions, or previous treatments like chemotherapy. It can lead to difficulties in getting pregnant and an increased risk of miscarriage. While IVF is often the recommended treatment for low ovarian reserve, it can be costly and invasive, making ICI a more appealing option for many couples.
The process of ICI involves collecting a sample of sperm from the male partner or a donor and washing it to remove any impurities. The sperm is then placed into a thin, flexible catheter and inserted into the woman’s cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. This process is usually done at a fertility clinic by a trained medical professional.
ICI has a higher success rate for couples with low ovarian reserve compared to natural conception, but it is not as high as IVF. However, it is a less invasive and more affordable option, making it a good choice for couples who are not ready for or cannot afford IVF. It also has a lower risk of multiple pregnancies, which can be a concern for some couples undergoing IVF.
One of the major advantages of ICI is that it can be done at home, unlike IVF which requires multiple visits to the fertility clinic. This allows for more privacy and convenience for the couple. However, it is important to follow the instructions provided by the fertility clinic to ensure the best chances of success. The timing of the insemination is crucial as it needs to be done at the most fertile time in a woman’s cycle.

Intra Cervical Insemination: A Non-Invasive Solution for Low Ovarian Reserve
It is recommended that ICI is done in conjunction with ovulation induction, which is the use of medication to stimulate the ovaries and increase the chances of ovulation. This can further improve the success rate of ICI for couples with low ovarian reserve. Ovulation induction can also help with timing the insemination and ensuring that the sperm and egg are present at the same time.
ICI is a relatively simple and painless procedure, with minimal side effects. Some women may experience cramping or spotting after the insemination, but these symptoms usually subside quickly. It is also a safe procedure with very few risks. However, it is important to consult with a fertility specialist before undergoing ICI to ensure that it is the right treatment option for the individual.
While ICI is a viable option for couples struggling with low ovarian reserve, it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consider factors such as age, medical history, and fertility test results before deciding on this treatment. Additionally, ICI may not be effective for certain fertility issues such as blocked fallopian tubes or severe male factor infertility.
In conclusion, ICI is a non-invasive and affordable treatment option for couples with low ovarian reserve. It offers a higher success rate than natural conception and a lower risk of multiple pregnancies compared to IVF. While it may not be suitable for all couples, it is worth considering for those who are looking for a less invasive alternative to IVF. Consultation with a fertility specialist is key in determining if ICI is the right choice for achieving the dream of parenthood.
In summary, Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI) is a non-invasive and affordable fertility treatment option for couples struggling with low ovarian reserve. It involves placing sperm directly into the cervix, making it a less invasive alternative to in vitro fertilization (IVF). ICI can be done at home and has a higher success rate than natural conception. However, it may not be suitable for all couples and consultation with a fertility specialist is recommended.






