Infertility is a challenging journey for many couples, but advancements in medical science have made parenthood achievable through treatments like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). For couples in Sri Lanka, IUI is becoming an increasingly popular fertility solution due to its affordability, simplicity, and success rate. Here's a comprehensive guide covering the cost, process, and success rates of IUI treatment in Sri Lanka.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a minimally invasive fertility procedure that involves placing washed and prepared sperm directly into a woman’s uterus during ovulation. This increases the chances of fertilization by bringing the sperm closer to the egg, bypassing certain barriers in the reproductive tract.
Initial Consultation: The first step involves a consultation with a fertility specialist who will evaluate the couple's medical history, lifestyle, and fertility factors. The doctor may suggest tests for both partners, including hormone levels, ultrasound, sperm analysis, and ovulation monitoring.
Ovulation Stimulation: In many cases, women undergo ovulation stimulation to increase the chances of producing multiple eggs. This is typically done with medications like Clomid or injectable hormones. Regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasounds helps track follicle development and determine the optimal time for insemination.
Sperm Collection and Processing: On the day of the procedure, sperm is collected from the male partner. The sperm is then washed and processed in the laboratory to ensure that only the healthiest sperm are selected for insemination.
Insemination: Using a thin catheter, the prepared sperm is inserted into the woman’s uterus during ovulation. The procedure is quick and generally painless, though some women may experience mild cramping.
Post-Procedure Monitoring: After the IUI procedure, the woman may be prescribed progesterone supplements to support the early stages of pregnancy. About two weeks later, a blood test is performed to check for pregnancy.
The affordability of IUI treatment makes it an attractive option for couples in Sri Lanka. The cost typically ranges from LKR 25,000 to LKR 50,000 per cycle, depending on the clinic, the expertise of the specialists, and additional tests or medications required.
The cost of IUI treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the clinic's location and the specific treatment plan. The initial consultation fees cover the specialist's assessment and guidance, and this can differ based on where you seek treatment. If ovulation issues are present, ovulation-inducing medications may be prescribed to stimulate egg production, adding an additional cost.
Ultrasound monitoring is necessary to track follicle development and ensure ovulation is timed properly, which can contribute to the overall cost depending on the number of visits required. Sperm washing and preparation ensures only healthy sperm are used, and the procedure charges cover the actual process of inseminating the sperm directly into the uterus.
Male Infertility: IUI is often recommended when sperm quality or quantity is a concern, ensuring a higher concentration of sperm reaches the fallopian tubes. It’s a less invasive and cost-effective option compared to other fertility treatments like IVF.
Female Ovulatory Disorders: IUI helps synchronize ovulation and can increase the chances of successful fertilization when combined with medications. This approach optimizes the chances of pregnancy during the fertile window.
Unexplained Infertility: In cases where no clear cause is found, IUI can be a useful first step before progressing to more advanced treatments like IVF. It offers a higher success rate than natural conception for many couples.
Cervical Issues: For women with cervical mucus that is too thick or hostile, IUI bypasses the cervix, ensuring that sperm reach the uterus and fallopian tubes. This is particularly helpful for women who may have cervical scarring or other structural issues.
IUI is more affordable than other advanced fertility treatments like IVF, which involves a much higher cost due to egg retrieval, embryo culture, and embryo transfer. Despite the lower cost, IUI still offers a reasonable success rate for many couples, making it a more accessible first-line fertility treatment.
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