Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is one of the simplest and least invasive fertility treatments available. It is often a natural first step for couples and individuals who have been trying to conceive without success and can be an excellent option in the right clinical circumstances.
At Aria Fertility in Marylebone, our team will assess whether IUI is the most appropriate path for you and support you every step of the way.
IUI involves placing a prepared sample of sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation, significantly shortening the distance sperm need to travel to reach an egg.
The procedure is quick and straightforward and usually does not require sedation or anaesthetic.
IUI can be performed in a natural cycle (without medication), or alongside ovulation induction medication to encourage the development of one or two eggs and improve the timing of insemination.
IUI is recommended for a wide range of fertility challenges, including:
IUI is generally not recommended where there is significant male factor infertility, bilateral tubal damage, or where a woman’s ovarian reserve is significantly reduced. Your consultant will advise you on whether IUI is appropriate for your situation and how many cycles you may wish to try before moving to IVF.
Your consultant will review your history, discuss your circumstances and determine whether IUI is the right treatment for you. They will explain whether treatment in a natural cycle or with medication is most appropriate.
Whether you are having a natural or stimulated IUI, you will attend the clinic for one or two ultrasound scans to track follicle development and identify the optimal time for insemination.
If medication is being used to support ovulation, a trigger injection may be given to time ovulation precisely and ensure insemination takes place at the right moment.
On the day of insemination, a sperm sample is prepared in our laboratory. This process – known as sperm washing – concentrates the healthiest, most motile sperm and removes seminal fluid. If you are using donor sperm, the sample will be prepared from frozen.
The prepared sperm is introduced into the uterine cavity through a thin, flexible catheter. The procedure is gentle and most patients describe it as no more uncomfortable than a cervical smear. It takes just a few minutes.
A pregnancy test is carried out approximately two weeks after insemination. Your nurse will be available to support you during this time and to discuss the results with you.
Aria was founded by fertility professionals, which means every decision is driven by what is best for patients. You will have a dedicated consultant overseeing your care, supported by our team of highly experienced embryologists and nurses, to ensure you receive personalised, compassionate care.
Our laboratory was one of the first in the UK to use AI-assisted embryo selection, and our single-embryo transfer rate and multiple-pregnancy rate (currently 3.7%) reflect our commitment to safe, evidence-based care. We are regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and publish our results transparently.
Our Marylebone clinic offers a calm, unhurried environment and personalised support from the first appointment to the final outcome.
IUI is a significant financial commitment, and we believe in being transparent about what that means from the outset.
Costs vary depending on your individual treatment plan, the investigations required, and whether additional procedures are recommended. When comparing prices between clinics, it’s worth ensuring you have a full breakdown of all components – consultation fees, monitoring scans, medication, and laboratory costs can vary considerably and are not always included in headline figures.
At Aria, we will discuss the expected costs during your initial consultation and provide you with a fully costed treatment plan before we start, so there are no surprises along the way.
The questions below are intended to give you a clear and honest overview. For advice specific to your situation, we always recommend booking a consultation with one of our team.
What is IUI and how does it differ from IVF?
IUI (intrauterine insemination) involves placing sperm directly into the uterus to assist fertilisation, which still takes place naturally inside the body. IVF (in vitro fertilisation) involves collecting eggs and fertilising them with sperm in a laboratory. IUI is simpler and less costly, but success rates per cycle are generally lower. Your Aria fertility consultant will advise you on which is most appropriate.
Am I suitable for IUI?
IUI tends to work best where fertility challenges are relatively mild – unexplained infertility, mild ovulatory issues, or mild male factor. It is also widely used by single women and same-sex couples using donor sperm. It is not suitable for everyone; your consultant will assess your individual situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
How many IUI cycles should I have before considering IVF?
Most clinicians typically recommend three to four IUI cycles before discussing a move to IVF. However, this depends on your age, diagnosis, and individual circumstances. If you are over 37, your consultant may recommend starting with fewer IUI attempts or moving directly to IVF to make the most of your time.
What are the success rates for IUI?
Success rates vary; HFEA data indicate that IUI success rates are generally around a third of those for IVF. Age, sperm quality and whether medication is used all affect the outcome. Your consultant will give you a realistic estimate based on your individual situation.
Is IUI painful?
Most patients find IUI mildly uncomfortable at most, like having a cervical smear. Mild cramping for a short time afterwards is not unusual. No sedation is required, and you can go home immediately after the procedure.
Can I use donor sperm for IUI?
Yes. IUI with donor sperm is a well-established route to parenthood for single women and lesbian couples. Aria works with HFEA-licensed donor sperm banks and will guide you through the selection process and the legal aspects of donor conception.
How much does IUI cost at Aria?
You will receive a fully costed treatment plan before starting any fertility treatment. Full pricing is available at ariafertility.co.uk/guide-to-our-pricing.
Can I work on the day of IUI?
Yes. Most patients return to work or normal activities on the same day. The procedure itself takes only a few minutes, and no sedation is involved. We do recommend taking things gently for a couple of hours afterwards.
Where is Aria Fertility?
We are located at 8 Welbeck Way, Marylebone, London W1G 9YL – a short walk from Bond Street Underground station. The clinic is deliberately discreet and calm, situated in a quiet mews in the heart of London’s medical district.
When you are ready and the time is right for you, the next step is to contact us, and we will help you arrange a face-to-face, telephone or video-call introduction with one of our consultants.
You can do this by filling in the contact form below or by calling one of our friendly team members on +44 (0) 203 263 6025.
We really look forward to getting to know you and helping guide you toward your next steps toward your dream family.