Complication in IUI

The risk for complications with intrauterine insemination is very low. The main risks are some discomfort such as cramping, minor injury to the cervix that leads to bleeding or spotting, or introduction of infection (including sexually transmitted disease from the sperm itself - it helps to be sure of the known donor's health, or use carefully monitored frozen specimens). There are also risks of hyperstimulation associated with the use of ovulation induction medications such as clomiphene citrate (low risk) and gonadotropin therapy (higher risk). Proper technique and adequate monitoring reduce risks.

The woman could develop an infection in the uterus and tubes from bacterial contamination that originated either in the semen sample, or through a contamination of the sterile catheter in the vagina or cervical area during the procedure. Careful cleaning of the cervix and cautious technique make this a rarity.

Though complications of IUI are infrequent, they include infection, uterine cramping, and rarely, transmission of venereal disease from the semen sample.

If no pregnancy is achieved after three IUI's, specialists may recommend more advanced reproductive therapies such as IVF.

Success rates for IUI depend largely on the cause of infertility and the woman's age. If the sperm count and cells are optimal and the woman's fallopian tubes healthy, conception rates for IUI with COH can range from five to 15 percent per cycle.