#iui's

[intracervical1]

Navigating the Journey of Intracervical Insemination (ICI) in Fertility Treatment

 Embarking on the path to parenthood is an exhilarating yet challenging journey. Many couples find themselves facing unexpected hurdles when attempting to conceive. In this blog post, we delve into the intriguing world of the “Turkey Baster Method,” scientifically known as Intracervical Insemination (ICI). Let’s explore the nuances of ICI, its procedures, success rates, and how it compares to other fertility treatments. 

Understanding ICI:

  Intracervical Insemination (ICI) and its Historical Significance ICI, a fertility treatment predating Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), involves concentrating semen at the cervix’s entrance using a cervical cap. This method, synonymous with the “Turkey Baster Method,” has a robust clinical history affirming its effectiveness in aiding conception.    Intracervical vs. Intravaginal Insemination: Distinguishing the Processes and Syringe Options Intracervical Insemination (ICI) and Intravaginal Insemination (IVI) are often used interchangeably, with both referring to the transfer of semen into the female reproductive tract. Whether performed at home or in a medical facility, specially designed syringes or catheters play a crucial role in delivering sperm close to the cervix.    

Optimizing the Journey of Sperm:

Sperm Viability, Timing, and Gravity’s Role  Understanding sperm’s lifespan and the importance of timing in relation to  ovulation is pivotal. ICI provides a gentle nudge to sperm using a syringe, aiding their journey towards the Fallopian tubes. Post-insemination, adopting a reclined position capitalizes on gravity to facilitate the sperm’s upward movement.    

Success Factors and Considerations:

   Criteria, Candidates, and Financial Aspects ICI is a viable option for individuals with a healthy uterus, active ovulation, and at least one functional Fallopian tube. However, it is crucial to rule out contraindications such as azoospermia, blocked Fallopian tubes, and certain infections. Financially, home-based ICI offers a cost-effective alternative, with kits like the Babymaker providing ergonomic syringes and comprehensive instructions.    

[f1writingbyme]

Hi everyone,

This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever written, and I never thought I’d be sharing something so deeply personal. But here I am, reaching out, hoping that someone else out there might understand this journey, this longing, this ache that I’m carrying. I don’t have a big following, so I don’t know if this will reach many people, but if there’s a chance it connects with even one person who’s been through something similar, it’ll be worth it.

My boyfriend and I have been trying to start a family. For over two years, we tried before finally going to our GP, who sent us straight to a clinic. It’s been a year of treatments now, a year of hopeful highs and crushing lows. We tried IUI (intrauterine insemination) four times – four times our hopes rose and fell. Then we turned to ICSI (intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) because “traditional” IVF wasn’t an option for us.

When I had my egg retrieval, they collected a lot of eggs, but only four turned into embryos. Four. Just four chances to hold onto this dream.

Today, we found out that none of those embryos made it. We’re back to square one. All those hormone shots, every bruise, every drop of blood, every ultrasound, all the mood swings, the endless hoping and praying – only to have to start from scratch. I can’t describe the exhaustion, both physically and emotionally. You go through the medications, the appointments, waiting, and waiting, just to start all over again. It feels like it’s breaking me.

We’re going to try again because we still hold onto this hope of having a baby together. But we also have to face the reality that it may never happen, and that thought shatters my heart. Watching others around me get pregnant, hearing news of new babies… it’s so hard to see, and it fills me with a mix of sadness and anger that I can’t even fully explain. I don’t want to feel this way, but it’s the truth.

I feel so alone in this. None of my close friends or family have faced something like this. I’m reaching out here, hoping to find someone who understands, someone who has been through this kind of pain and hope and heartbreak. I feel like I could just disappear, like the ground could open up and take me in, but here I am, holding onto a sliver of hope that one day, somehow, I’ll get to hold a little miracle in my arms. Until then, I’m trying my best to be patient, even when it feels like it’s breaking me.

I want to thank @lestappenforever, my best friend in the entire world, for being my rock through all of this, even from miles away. You never push, you never overwhelm me with questions — you’re just there, right when I need you. That kind of support means more to me than I can put into words. I love you. ❤️❤️❤️

I don’t know if anyone going through the same thing will see this, but if you do, please reach out. I’m here to talk, to listen, to be there for you, but also to share my story.

You’re not alone in this. Please hold onto that. ❤️

I'm going to be a lot less active on here. I'm sorry for that (if anyone cares) but I need some time to myself. Mona and I will be back on the 1st of December with something fucking amazing which I hope you all love ❤️ I want to thank you all for your support and I love you all.

[rozecrest]

main office at my work just installed these intensely bright white lights in every corner the waiting room and a patient and her wife came in like wtf what are these we were just here two days ago these suck and my light sensitive ass, wearing sunglasses, was like yep 🙃 we all don't like them 🙃 i would love to pass on a complaint for you! and her wife wrote this letter for me to send that is KILLINGG me

[abortionado]

sounds like a great situation all around

[whentherewerebicycles]

everything is still so good!!! heartbeat is super fast and strong and is now firmly in the upper band of healthy/normal. behold the little seahorse (now less seahorse-y because its tail is almost gone) floating around in there attached to its little yolk sac inner tube!!

[growinginsideshrinkingoutside]

Abortion

After many years of trying to have a baby, our first pregnancy ended with an abortion. I think it’s important to take the time to address the reality of the situation.

Trigger Warning; Abortion/Miscarriage/Loss. Previous: Embryo Transfer #1 Throughout my entire childhood, I always knew that my mom had trouble getting pregnant and ended up going through 5 miscarriages before I was born. I listened to her talk about it, and I knew that she had names chosen out for each one of the siblings that I never had. I never quite knew how to feel for her. I never…

[theglowstickchronicles]

The simultaneous upside and downside of working at a hospital that covers the majority of fertility treatments means that you tend to run into people you know at the clinic.

Nice, because this attending I’ve worked with for 10 years, since she was a resident, and I can smile at each other across the waiting room.

Sad, because this woman I’ve worked with for 10 years and I are sharing this depressing smile across the waiting room.

[gallusneve]

Official starting date of my IUI treatment is 7 February 🥹❤️

My wife and I are so excited, we signed up on our 3rd child development and parenthood classes! I started classes to get my 2nd bachelor's degree (cyber security) too on the side to do lol

[earanemith]

sorry not sorry

Yes you see that right. I am pregnant!!!

Thats mostly why Ive been kinda absent. So sorry not sorry for everyone waiting on an update of promises made. Ive been in this rollercoaster. Im 10 weeks along. Only thing i can promise at this time i wont abandon it.

Anyway im of on my cloud of happiness again!!

[half-bakedboy]

A baby update from @bytheangell and I 👶🏻

As many of you know, we have been trying our best to save and raise funds to support our IUI journey to have a baby. When we had initially estimated the costs of this journey, we were hopeful that the IUI treatment would be mostly covered by insurance. Unfortunately, a month ago, we received the news that it would not be. Now we know that each IUI attempt that we have will cost an estimated $2,750. With that said, we have made the decision to start with one IUI cycle before the end of the year. 🎉 We feel in our hearts that the time is right for us to try and we're almost at the goal we would need for a first attempt. All funds raised will go toward sperm, required medication, and one round of IUI. This is only for the FIRST attempt, so any other funds raised will be saved for any future attempts that may be needed and/or hopefully toward our future child. This isn't a decision we have made lightly. Realistically, if this attempt does not end in a pregnancy, we will have to start back at square one financially (and mentally/emotionally) in order to try again. We believe, though, that this is the best way for us to start our family. Thank you so much to everyone who has already donated, who will donate, and to all who have continuously shared our link and supported this journey in any way they can. It truly brings tears to our eyes to see the love that surrounds us.

Donate to our GoFundMe

Donate to Emryn's Ko-Fi (and receive a gift fic/art)

Donate to Elle's Ko-Fi (and receive a gift fic)

[aurawomen]

Understanding Ovulation and Fertility: Facts to Help You Get Pregnant

Ovulation refers to the release of an egg from the ovary, which typically occurs midway through the menstrual cycle. Understanding when ovulation occurs is essential for couples trying to conceive, as it marks the most fertile window in a woman’s cycle.

[intracervical1]

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Navigating Fertility, Science, and Hope

IUI (intrauterine insemination) stands as a variant of artificial insemination. It involves the insertion of meticulously processed and concentrated sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation, facilitating the proximity of healthy sperm to the released egg from the ovaries. This procedure finds common application in the realm of fertility treatments, catering to couples or individuals harboring aspirations of conception.

What Constitutes IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI), a subtype of artificial insemination, emerges as a fertility intervention entailing the direct introduction of sperm into an individual’s uterus.

Healthcare practitioners often opt for IUI as an initial step before resorting to more invasive and costly fertility treatments. IUI procedures can involve either the partner’s sperm or donor sperm, complemented at times by fertility drugs to stimulate ovulation.

Why Opt for IUI

The decision to pursue IUI is influenced by various factors, encompassing infertility challenges and the reproductive choices of same-sex female couples or single females opting for conception through a sperm donor.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) may find application in the following scenarios:

1. Cervical mucus complications or cervix-related issues, where thick mucus hinders sperm mobility, circumvented by IUI bypassing the cervix. 2. Low sperm count or other sperm anomalies, addressed by IUI’s meticulous sperm selection process. 3. Employment of donor sperm in cases where natural conception is unviable. 4. Challenges arising from ejaculation or erection dysfunction, where IUI provides an alternative avenue. 5. Semen allergy, a rare condition remedied by the removal of allergenic proteins through sperm washing in IUI. 6. Instances of unexplained infertility, where conventional diagnostic methods fail to identify the root cause.

IUI Timetable: From Commencement to Conclusion

The IUI procedure spans approximately four weeks (around 28 days), aligning with the duration of a standard menstrual cycle.

Initiating the IUI process entails a comprehensive examination for both partners, encompassing bloodwork, semen analysis, ultrasound, and other diagnostic measures. Fertility drugs may be prescribed, depending on individual cases, to stimulate ovulation and the release of multiple eggs. Notably, not all cases necessitate these medications. The insemination itself is a swift process, taking mere minutes for sperm insertion, followed by a recommended 15-minute recline period. A pregnancy test is viable approximately two weeks post-insemination.

Evaluating IUI Success

The success of IUI is contingent on the underlying cause of infertility. It exhibits optimal efficacy in cases of unexplained infertility, cervical mucus issues, or ejaculation challenges. However, certain conditions such as fallopian tube disorders, endometriosis, or severe sperm impairments may necessitate more effective alternatives like in vitro fertilization (IVF).

IVF vs. IUI: Discerning the Dissimilarity

Diverging from in vitro fertilization (IVF), where fertilization occurs externally in a laboratory setting, IUI orchestrates fertilization within the fallopian tube. A meticulously processed sperm sample, with only high-quality specimens remaining, is introduced into the uterus via a catheter during ovulation. This method optimizes the likelihood of sperm-egg interaction, rendering IUI less invasive and costly than IVF. However, IUI does bear a lower success rate per cycle compared to its counterpart.

Procedural Nuances

Deconstructing the Steps of IUI Treatment

While each treatment plan and healthcare provider may exhibit slight variations, IUI treatment generally follows a standardized process:

1. Ovulation: Precision in determining ovulation timing is crucial, often facilitated through at-home ovulation prediction kits or blood tests detecting luteinizing hormone (LH). Transvaginal ultrasounds may also be employed to identify signs of mature eggs. In some instances, injections of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or other fertility medications stimulate ovulation. 2. Insemination: Executed within 24 to 36 hours post-LH detection, insemination involves the insertion of sperm into the uterus through a catheter. 3. Semen Sample Preparation: Fresh sperm is provided on the day of the procedure, undergoing sperm washing to concentrate healthy sperm. Donor sperm, if used, is usually pre-washed by the sperm bank. 4. Insemination Procedure: A brief process where the patient lies on the examination table, a speculum is inserted, and a catheter is navigated through the cervix into the uterus for the injection of the washed sperm sample. 5. Post-Insemination: A recommended period of lying down for 10 to 30 minutes, with a pregnancy test feasible two weeks post-insemination. Progesterone may be administered to enhance uterine lining maintenance and implantation prospects.

Preparing for IUI Treatment

Preliminary to commencing IUI treatment, a thorough medical examination and fertility tests for both partners are imperative. This includes uterine exams, uterine ultrasounds, semen analysis, screening for infectious diseases, and blood tests. Folic acid supplementation, typically present in prenatal vitamins, may be advised in advance.

Post IUI Treatment Expectations

After IUI, mild symptoms such as cramping and spotting may ensue, typically lasting one or two days. Resumption of normal activities is generally immediate, with no specific restrictions. A pregnancy test can be taken around two weeks post-IUI.

Assessing IUI Treatment Discomfort

While anesthesia isn’t a prerequisite for IUI, mild cramping and discomfort mayoccur during and immediately after the insemination procedure. Notably, the process is designed to be minimally painful.

Medications in IUI

IUI is often complemented by fertility medications aimed at stimulating ovarian activity. Common medications include Clomiphene citrate (Clomid® or Serophene®), Letrozole (Femara®), human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and prenatal vitamins. The decision to use fertility drugs is contingent on the healthcare provider’s assessment.

Financial Considerations

The financial aspect of IUI varies, influenced by factors such as the chosen fertility clinic, health history, medication use, and diagnostic testing. It is generally more cost-effective than other fertility treatments like IVF. Costs typically range between $300 and $4,000 per cycle, with some states mandating partial insurance coverage for infertility treatment.

Risk and Rewards

Understanding IUI Risks

Compared to more invasive fertility treatments like IVF, IUI presents a lower risk profile. Potential risks include:

1. Multiple births: Elevated by fertility medication, increasing the chances of twins, triplets, or more. 2. Infection: A rare occurrence. 3. Spotting: Minor vaginal bleeding post-procedure. 4. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): A rare side effect linked to excessive fertility medication use, causing painful and swollen ovaries.

Common IUI Side Effects

Mild side effects, such as cramping and spotting, may manifest post-insemination. The mental and physical challenges associated with IUI, often experienced by couples grappling with infertility, may prompt feelings of depression. Open communication with healthcare providers is crucial to navigate such emotional aspects.

Recovery and Outlook

IUI Effectiveness

IUI’s effectiveness hinges on factors like the cause of infertility and the age of the prospective parent. With fertility drugs in play, the pregnancy rate for IUI can ascend to 20%. Overall, the IUI fertility rate aligns with natural conception at approximately 20%, restoring typical success rate expectations.

Timeliness of Pregnancy Confirmation

Approximately two weeks post-IUI, one can ascertain pregnancy status. Detection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in blood or urine determines pregnancy viability. Healthcare providers guide whether a blood test or an at-home urine test is appropriate.

Transitioning from IUI to IVF

Healthcare providers typically recommend three cycles of IUI before considering alternate reproductive treatments, particularly IVF. For individuals over 40, expedited progression to IVF may be suggested due to enhanced success rates in that age group. Conditions like endometriosis, fallopian tube damage, or advanced maternal age might prompt direct IVF consideration.

Seeking Professional Guidance

In cases where three IUI cycles yield no pregnancy, healthcare providers engage in discussions regarding subsequent steps. Collaboration with healthcare professionals ensures informed decisions aligned with individual circumstances.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Indicators for Healthcare Provider Contact

Individuals on fertility medications for IUI should reach out to their healthcare providers if experiencing:

1. Severe pelvic or abdominal pain. 2. Nausea and vomiting. 3. Shortness of breath. 4. Sudden weight gain. 5. Dizziness or lightheadedness.

Additional Insights

Enhancing Pregnancy Odds with IUI

Various factors influence IUI success, including age, fertility drug utilization, health conditions, the specific cause of infertility, and personalized guidance from healthcare providers.

IUI Success Rate

Apart from infertility causation, age emerges as the primary determinant of IUI success. The pregnancy rate breakdown by age is as follows:

1. Age 20 to 30: 17.6% 2. Age 31 to 35: 13.3% 3. Age 36 to 38: 13.4% 4. Age 39 to 40: 10.6% 5. Over 40: 5.4%

IUI vs. IVF

IUI precedes IVF in most cases due to its cost-effectiveness and lower invasiveness. However, healthcare providers may recommend IVF if IUI proves unsuitable, often based on age or the specific infertility cause.

Post-IUI Sexual Activity

Engaging in sexual activity before and after IUI is permissible, potentially augmenting pregnancy prospects.

A Reminder from Cleveland Clinic

Individuals grappling with conception challenges are encouraged to consult with healthcare providers. The array of available options, including IUI, reflects the commitment to assisting individuals in achieving successful pregnancies. Professional guidance tailors fertility treatments to individual needs, enhancing the prospects of a positive outcome.

Conclusion

In conclusion, IUI (intrauterine insemination) emerges as a multifaceted fertility intervention, delicately intertwining science and human aspirations. From intricate procedures and nuanced timelines to potential risks and rewards, the journey of IUI is underscored by a tapestry of considerations. Navigating this landscape requires not only medical expertise but also a nuanced understanding of individual circumstances. As individuals embark on the path of assisted reproduction, the collaborative effort between patients and healthcare providers becomes paramount. IUI, with its unique blend of science and compassion, stands as a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of fertility treatments, offering hope and possibilities on the journey toward parenthood.

[talaricula]

a rly underrated thing about crazy ex girlfriend imo is that it's one of the rare shows i know of that really spends time on exploring what the process of having children is like for queer ppl/for those who go about it "non-normatively". it's not even rly a main storyline but i still find it rly well-handled and touching.

[suzanimated]

Part 1-10 of 11

[whentherewerebicycles]

a year ago I was about to find out I was pregnant for the first time. and then I would go on to have a really hard, really painful summer after I lost the pregnancy. I spent those four-ish months in such an intense haze of grief/fear/rage/uncertainty. I felt so convinced I would never get to be a parent. now I’m lying in bed with a beautiful little baby napping on my chest. he keeps flinging his arms out in that newborn startle reflex, which makes him look like a furious maestro who can’t bring his promising but undisciplined orchestra to heel. I have a feeling I’m about to spend this summer being so so tired, but gosh! at least this time around the exhaustion will be shot through with this incredible joy.

[theglowstickchronicles]

Got me generic screening back and if the 176 gene mutations they screened me for, I only tested positive as a carrier for 1, which is really nice. I was worried that there were punnett squares in my near future 😬😬