Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) offers a less invasive, affordable fertility treatment for many patients struggling to conceive.
Explore how our skilled fertility experts can use IUI in Denver, CO, to help you overcome fertility obstacles and expand your family.
What is IUI And How Is It Different From IVF?
IUI, also known as artificial insemination, is a method of assisted reproduction in which washed sperm are directly injected into the uterus. The sperm then fertilize the egg naturally.
IUI offers a less invasive alternative to in vitro fertilization (IVF). In IVF, eggs are retrieved and then fertilized in the lab with sperm. The fertilized egg is allowed to develop in the lab, and the resulting embryo is transferred to the mother’s uterus.
Because IUI doesn’t require fertilization in the lab, it offers a more affordable option for our patients in Denver and Englewood.
Artificial insemination can be used to overcome issues tied to both male and female infertility.
Who Can Benefit from IUI?
IUI is a method of assisted reproduction that can address a range of male and female infertility issues, as well as unexplained infertility. IUI may be a good treatment option for those with:
- Low Sperm Count
- Sperm Motility Issues
- Sperm Morphology Issues
- Male Factor Infertility
- Endometriosis
- Irregular or absent ovulation
- Reproductive Organ Abnormalities (specifically the cervix and/or uterus)
- Unreceptive Cervical Mucus
- Unexplained Infertility
- Same Sex Female Couples Using a Sperm Donor
- Single Female Patients Using a Sperm Donor
Find Out if IUI Is Right for You Request an Appointment With Our Fertility Experts Today
Board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Dana Ambler with Dr. Bruce Albrecht, the founder of Denver Fertility Care.
Dr. Dana Ambler and our team specialize in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. This allows them to get to the root cause of your fertility struggles before developing a custom treatment plan.
Often, fertility doctors jump straight to IVF, which is more invasive than IUI—and more costly. Our fertility specialists believe in finding the least invasive treatments possible. Our unique approach to infertility treatment means many patients who usually would not be considered for IUI at other practices can undergo the IUI procedure to achieve a successful pregnancy.
If you are struggling to conceive and want to learn more about IUI, contact our fertility clinic today.
We have offices in both Denver and Englewood (DTC Lincoln & I-25)
Growing Families in Denver and Englewood
“Highly recommend! After doing my research i went with DFC and couldn’t be happier. I had friends leave one of the other national “best in the country” options and am so glad i chose DFC. We got pregnant on our third IUI and the staff was incredibly supportive and informative throughout. They answered all my questions and addressed all my concerns. They listened to my plan and ideal timing/approach and never pushed me one way or the other throughout, but rather listened and informed me of my best options. So grateful I found them and excited to welcome our little one this coming March!”
Megan, 2024
How Much Does IUI Cost?
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Due to its cost-effective nature, IUI is often the first place to start when dealing with fertility concerns. Because we are physician-owned, we can also pass savings on to our patients. This non-invasive procedure costs approximately $650 for intrauterine insemination alone, and around $1500 with medications and monitoring included.
In some circumstances, insurance will cover IUI. We may require verification of benefits and prior authorization of insurance coverage before treatment begins. We also work with several lenders to offer financing options for our patients in the Denver Metro area
Take a Look at a Typical IUI Cycle
Since IUI is usually a less invasive, less expensive option for fertility treatment, it is a great starting place for those who are struggling to get pregnant.
Many times, IUI is the only fertility intervention needed for couples to achieve a pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions About IUI at Denver Fertility Care
Q. What are the chances of success with IUI?
A. Since success rates are largely dependent on many outlying factors, and IUI is typically a first option for those struggling with fertility, it is difficult to measure the exact success rate of this procedure. The goal of IUI is to increase the number of healthy sperm reaching the fallopian tube, providing the sperm a “head start,” but it does require the sperm to reach and fertilize the egg on its own. IUI is a solution for roughly 20% of patients, while others move on to more involved techniques.
Q. If IUI doesn’t work the first time, is IVF my only option?
A. Not necessarily. Like natural conception, some cycles just aren’t successful. In some cases, we may try another round of IUI with different fertility medications prior to recommending more invasive and costly procedures, like IVF. Our doctors treat each patient and each cycle individually; should the first round of IUI be unsuccessful, our recommendation on the best course of action will depend on your unique needs and preferences.
Q. At what point is IUI suggested for couples attempting to conceive?
A. For couples under 35, IUI may be a great next step if you have had unprotected sex for one year. For couples over the age of 35, the timeline drops to about six months. It is important to remember that even healthy couples attempting to conceive naturally who are under 30 years old only have about a 20% chance of conceiving. Sometimes conception takes time. Our doctors will only recommend IUI if they believe it is the best option for you.
Ready to speak to our fertility experts about your next steps? Schedule a consultation at our fertility offices in Denver or Englewood, CO (Lincoln & I-25). We're also happy to answer any questions about our care:
Hear From a Patient
“Denver Fertility made my dreams of becoming a mother come true. We have a 2 year old daughter and we are trying again for our second. We can't say enough good things about them!”
Casey B, 2023
