Artificial insemination with partner's semen (AI): fulfilling the dream of parenthood
What is Artificial Insemination with Partner's Semen or AI?
Artificial insemination (AI) is one of the two main groups of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). The other is in vitro fertilization (IVF). It essentially involves facilitating the meeting of sperm and egg by placing a semen sample inside the woman's uterus. This sample has been previously prepared in the laboratory, selecting and concentrating the highest quality sperm—that is, those with the best motility.
The main difference compared to IVF is that prior egg retrieval is not necessary. In this case, ovarian stimulation and endometrial monitoring are performed to determine the optimal time for artificial insemination (AI).
Furthermore, it is worth noting that, within the field of AI, we find two subgroups :
- the one made with partner's semen (IAC)
- or with donor semen (IAD).
Today we will talk about the IAC.
Artificial insemination with partner's semen (AI)
When is Artificial Insemination with Partner's Semen Indicated?
- When a mild alteration in the semen is detected in a man.
- When a woman has ovulation defects or suffers from mild endometriosis.
- In cases of sterility of unknown origin.
Requirements
- Women must be able to ovulate spontaneously or with treatment and have at least one patent (unobstructed) tube. A hysterosalpingogram is performed to check tubal patency.
- Men require a minimum concentration of recovered motile spermatozoa - greater than 3 million.
Procedure: ovarian stimulation
1. Ovulation is gently stimulated through intramuscular hormone injections for 10-12 days. The goal is to produce a maximum of two follicles, thereby increasing the chances of pregnancy. Naturally, women typically produce only one follicle per menstrual cycle.
2. During this period, three to four ultrasound scans will be performed to monitor the progress of the treatment. The growth and development of the follicles will also be monitored by measuring estradiol levels in the blood.
3. Following the ultrasound scan, which will determine when the dominant follicle reaches a size of between 17 and 20 mm, the woman will be administered the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) via subcutaneous injection . This hormone will be responsible for completing the follicle's maturation and inducing ovulation.
4. Approximately 35-37 hours after the hCG injection, the follicle should have reached the appropriate size. Vaginal ultrasounds will be used to confirm this, after which artificial insemination will be scheduled.
5. The semen sample will be taken to the fertility laboratory approximately two hours before the IUI. There, biologists will prepare the sample , concentrating the motile sperm in a 0,2 ml container. These sperm will then be introduced into the woman's uterus in a simple procedure that does not require sedation and is performed in the doctor's office . Using a vaginal speculum, the specialist inserts the cannula containing the sperm sample through the cervix and into the uterus. The discomfort experienced by the woman will be no greater than that of a routine Pap smear.
6. After resting for a few minutes in the consultation room, the patient will be scheduled for a pregnancy test approximately 15 days later. The need for medication— progesterone to promote implantation—will also be considered. During this time, she should lead a normal life, avoiding high-intensity physical activity.
More information about ovarian stimulation can be found here.
Probabilities of success of Artificial Insemination with Partner's Semen
The success rate of artificial insemination with the partner's semen varies between 10 and 15% per cycle, and 2 to 4 cycles are performed.
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- Controversy over uterus transplantation as a technique in reproductive treatments
More information from Dr. Suárez of UDM:
If you found this article interesting and would like to consult with a specialist in Artificial Insemination, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized department in this area. You can request more information by calling 91 387 51 72/73/74 or schedule an in-person consultation with top specialists.