Why Artificial Insemination Is a Viable Infertility Treatment Option

Dr. Umme Ruman
Reviewed by Dr. Umme Ruman ,
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This information has been reviewed and approved by an experienced fertility specialist at Indira IVF to provide accurate and up-to-date guidance for our readers.

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Last updated: November 21, 2025

Synopsis

Artificial insemination (IUI) opens a path to parenthood for couples and individuals struggling to conceive. By placing healthy sperm directly into the uterus at the time of ovulation, the chances of fertilisation are increased. This guide discusses the IUI process in Nepal, who benefits, what to expect, steps, success rates, costs, risks, and other important considerations.

 

Introduction

Artificial Insemination, medically called Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), is designed to help couples conceive by increasing sperm-egg contact. The process places washed, healthy sperm into the uterus during ovulation, supporting natural fertilisation. In Nepal, IUI is both affordable and effective, making it a first-line fertility treatment for many.

What Is Artificial Insemination (IUI)?

Medical experts are increasingly turning to IUI (Artificial Insemination) as an early fertility treatment option. By placing healthy sperm closer to the egg, the procedure improves conception chances for couples dealing with low motility, cervical barriers, or unexplained infertility despite normal test results.

Your IUI is timed perfectly with ovulation, and with a little hormonal help, your body releases a mature egg ready for fertilisation. Every detail is designed to give you the best chance.

Because IUI mimics natural conception with medical assistance, it is considered a safe, cost-effective, and viable first-line fertility treatment before moving on to more advanced methods such as IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation).

Who Can Benefit from Artificial Insemination?

IUI is a flexible, inclusive fertility treatment that supports natural conception. Often, the first step before IVF benefits a variety of individuals and couples in Nepal. Groups who benefit most include:

  • Unexplained Infertility

    Couples facing unexplained infertility can consider IUI, which helps increase the chances of fertilisation and offers a hopeful treatment option. IUI helps more sperm reach the fallopian tubes and bypass hidden obstacles, giving couples a better chance at conception. Because it’s simple, safe, and affordable, it’s often the first step doctors recommend.

  • Mild Male Factor Infertility

    IUI works really well when male fertility issues are a factor. If tests show low sperm count, poor movement, or abnormal shape, the lab “washes” the sperm to pick the healthiest ones and then places them directly into the uterus, boosting your chances of conceiving.

    Men with mild fertility issues can turn to IUI as a practical, non-invasive treatment that significantly improves the chances of conception.

  • Cervical Mucus Issues

    Sometimes, cervical mucus can act as a barrier. If it’s unusually thick, acidic, or hostile, sperm may have difficulty surviving or moving, which can reduce the chances of fertilisation.

    IUI skips the cervix entirely, putting sperm straight in the uterus. For women with recurring cervical problems, it’s a practical and effective way to boost fertility.

  • Ovulation Disorders

    For women with irregular cycles, such as those with PCOS or hormonal issues, IUI can be a helpful option. Medications help stimulate ovulation, and once your egg release is confirmed, IUI is timed for maximum fertilisation. This approach can significantly improve your chances of conceiving.

  • Single Women or Same-Sex Couples

    IUI allows single women and same-sex couples to conceive using carefully screened donor sperm for safe, inclusive parenthood.

    For individuals seeking pregnancy and childbirth, donor insemination through IUI offers a safe, legal, and cost-effective option in Nepal. This method enables people to build families independently while receiving comprehensive medical support.

  • Couples with Ejaculation or Sexual Dysfunction

    In some cases, couples face sexual or psychological conditions that make regular intercourse difficult or impossible. IUI serves as an excellent alternative by facilitating fertilisation without the need for sexual activity.

    Even with challenges like premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or vaginismus, couples can achieve pregnancy through IUI, which removes emotional pressure from the process.

Step-by-Step Process of Artificial Insemination (IUI)

The IUI procedure is uncomplicated, minimally invasive, and conducted in a few defined steps. Here’s a detailed explanation of how the process works:

  • Ovulation Monitoring

    The fertility specialist conducts ultrasound imaging and hormone assays to monitor ovulation. Fertility medicines are sometimes used to help the ovaries release one or more mature eggs at the best time for insemination.

  • Sperm Preparation

    A sperm sample is collected from the partner or donor and washed to remove impurities. Only the healthiest sperm are selected, improving the chance of conception and reducing uterine discomfort.

  • Insemination Procedure

    After ovulation, washed sperm are gently placed into the uterus with a flexible catheter. The procedure is painless, quick, and clinic-based. Many women say it feels like a pap smear, and you can go about your day right afterwards.

  • Luteal Phase Support

    After IUI, your doctor might suggest taking progesterone or other hormones to help your uterine lining stay healthy and give a fertilised egg the best chance to implant.

  • Pregnancy Test

    About two weeks after your IUI procedure, your doctor will do a pregnancy or blood test to see if implantation has happened. This step-by-step method keeps IUI low-risk and quick, perfect for anyone starting their fertility journey.

Why Artificial Insemination Is a Viable Option

IUI is simple, effective, and affordable. Less invasive than IVF, it works naturally. Here’s why couples choose it.

  • Affordable Hope: IUI brings fertility care within reach.
  • Encouraging Results: Especially for couples with mild fertility issues.
  • Gentle Approach: Safe, simple, and recovery is quick.
  • The Right Beginning: IUI often marks the first successful step toward IVF or ICSI.

When conducted under proper medical guidance, artificial insemination is a safe, realistic, and hopeful fertility treatment for couples seeking conception.

Success Rate of Artificial Insemination

Your chances with IUI depend a lot on age. If you’re in your early 30s or younger, success rates are around 20–25%. Between 30 and 35, it’s usually about 15–20%. For women between 35 and 40, success rates dip to roughly 10%, and by your early 40s, it’s around 5%.

Several factors influence IUI outcomes: your age and ovarian reserve, correct ovulation timing, sperm quality, and the use of fertility medications.

Your fertility doctor can give you a clear outlook based on your personal health situation. With proper monitoring, artificial insemination in Nepal offers a good chance for a natural pregnancy without the physical and financial strain of advanced ART treatments.

How Long Does the IUI Process Take?

The standard IUI procedure extends over 4 weeks and includes the following protocol:

  • Ovulation monitoring through scans or hormone assessments.
  • Quick and painless insemination lasting 15–30 minutes.
  • Two weeks of waiting before taking your pregnancy test.

Most patients can resume daily activities immediately after insemination.

For improved success rates, doctors usually advise 3–6 IUI cycles before considering advanced treatments like IVF.

IUI Cost in Nepal

In Nepal, couples can expect the cost of IUI to range from NPR 10,000 to NPR 25,000 per cycle, depending on the clinic and treatment specifics.

  • Initial fertility consultation and examination.
  • Ovulation monitoring through ultrasound.
  • Semen collection and sperm washing.
  • Insemination procedure and follow-up visits.

Your journey may include small additional costs for medicines, donor sperm, or hormonal support, but every step brings you closer to your dream. Talk to your clinic for full transparency.

IUI remains one of Nepal’s most affordable and effective ways to begin that journey.

Risks and Considerations

Artificial insemination is super safe for most people, but it’s good to know what to expect.

  • Mild Side Effects

    Occasional cramping, spotting, or light discomfort may occur but generally ease within a few hours.

  • Multiple Pregnancy

    If fertility medications are used for ovulation induction, there is a small risk of multiple pregnancies (twins or triplets). Proper dosage and careful monitoring by your fertility specialist help minimise this risk.

  • Infection or Reaction

    Very rarely, a slight infection or reaction may occur, but most clinics take every measure to keep things perfectly safe.

  • Emotional Impact

    Every fertility journey can feel emotional, and that’s okay. With expert counselling and support, you can stay positive throughout your treatment. Backed by skilled fertility specialists and safe protocols, IUI continues to be one of the most secure and effective options available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is artificial insemination painful?

How many IUI cycles are usually needed for success?

Can donor sperm be used for artificial insemination in Nepal?

What is the difference between IUI and IVF?

Can IUI help with male infertility?

How should I prepare for an IUI cycle?

Is artificial insemination covered by insurance in Nepal?

Meet Top Fertility Specialists in Bangladesh at Indira IVF

Dr. Umme Ruman

Chief Infertility Specialist, MBBS(DU), FCPS(Obstetrics and Gynaecology), Fellowship in Assisted reproduction

Dr. Umme Ruman is a BMDC-registered infertility specialist based in Dhaka. She holds advanced qualifications in assisted reproductive techniques, sexual and reproductive medicine. Dr. Ruman serves as a Chief Consultant at Indira IVF Dhaka, helping patients with personalised fertility care based on her vast experience and expertise. Her knowledge and compassion will support couples navigating reproductive health challenges and guide them effectively towards their parenthood dreams.

Dr. Rezwana Kabir

IVF specialist, MBBS (SSMC), MS (Obstetrics and Gynaecology), Fellowship in Assisted reproduction

Dr. Rezwana Kabir is a BMDC-registered specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology, and now a part of Indira IVF’s team of fertility specialists in Bangladesh. She combines medical proficiency with a patient-centric approach, offering tailored solutions to couples seeking fertility assistance. She is committed to helping individuals confidently navigate the journey to parenthood through ethical, empathetic, and evidence-based care.

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