Using IUI To Support Your Pregnancy Journey
In collaboration with a fertility clinic, some hopeful parents use intrauterine insemination (IUI) to increase the chances of pregnancy. IUI helps in several situations, such as unexplained infertility, low sperm count, ejaculation dysfunction, or issues with ovulation. This form of reproductive support is used with donor sperm, single women, or same-sex couples hoping to get pregnant. Doctors will combine IUI with ovulation induction, but this process comes with the chance of becoming pregnant with multiples. Potential parents must understand this risk and make the appropriate decisions if twins are on the horizon.
Combining IUI with ovulation induction
Doctors perform IUI by placing a sperm sample directly into the uterus using a small catheter. The sperm sample is prepared in a special solution to eliminate impurities while allowing the most potent sperm to remain. The goal is to help the sperm reach the fallopian tubes more efficiently while bypassing any cervix or low sperm count issues. Ovulation induction is an optional step in IUI. The woman takes hormone medication to stimulate the ovaries and optimize ovulation. IUI is performed with the release of the eggs triggered by ovulation induction. Combining IUI with ovulation induction increases the likelihood of pregnancy.
Can ovulation induction lead to twin pregnancies?
The hormone medication used during ovulation induction prompts the ovaries to produce more eggs. This step can enhance fertility while setting the stage for more potent sperm to reach the fallopian tubes. At the same time, ovulation induction can lead to the release of multiple eggs in each cycle. Should these eggs become fertilized during IUI, twin pregnancy can happen. The precise timing of IUI can maximize the chance of multiples. Sometimes, hormone medication can increase endometrial receptivity, further increasing the chances of twins. This is a known risk of IUI and is discussed with the patient before proceeding.
Potential benefits of twin pregnancies
Some IUI patients or couples see twins as a positive benefit. The primary goal of becoming pregnant is achieved, and some couples are excited about the prospect of having twin children. Twins can fulfill the goal of a larger family without going through the infertility treatment process again. The birth of twins can even be cost-effective for singles or couples hoping to build larger families. IUI cycles can be expensive, and patients can also avoid in vitro fertilization (IVF) in the future.
Look out for these complications
Twins are more likely to be born prematurely and have developmental delays or long-term health conditions. The pregnant mother is also at risk and needs close monitoring. Issues like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or a need for emergency cesarean section can occur. Twin pregnancies carry a high logistical and financial burden. The physical and emotional toll of childbirth can lead to postpartum depression or mental health issues. Assess the risks and benefits before proceeding with ovulation induction with IUI.
The decision is yours
Intrauterine insemination can help couples or adults with fertility hurdles increase the chances of pregnancy. Adding ovulation induction increases fertility but can lead to twin pregnancies due to the release of multiple eggs. IUI patients must prepare for the possibility of twins. If patients welcome twins, ovulation induction can proceed. If patients would prefer to avoid twins, in vitro fertilization (IVF) with a single embryo transfer (SET) is the ideal strategy. Discuss the possibility of twins with a doctor and come up with an appropriate plan.
