Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a prominent fertility treatment designed for couples struggling with infertility. It involves the direct insertion of sperm into the uterus to improve the chances of conception. The effectiveness of IUI is contingent upon the underlying cause of infertility, with the procedure being particularly beneficial for those with mild male factor infertility, cervical infertility, or unexplained infertility. IUI is frequently offered at in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics as a less invasive and more affordable alternative to IVF treatment.
The success of IUI is typically measured by the pregnancy rate, or the proportion of couples who achieve a clinical pregnancy after undergoing the procedure. Several factors influence this rate, including sperm quality, ovarian stimulation methods, the timing of insemination, and the cause of infertility. A recent study has highlighted how both advancing maternal and paternal age negatively affect the likelihood of conception. Additionally, while a higher maternal BMI may require increased medication dosages, it does not necessarily alter pregnancy outcomes. On the other hand, paternal obesity is a known contributor to infertility. Interestingly, most successful pregnancies resulting from IUI occur within the first four treatment cycles.
Globally, the pregnancy success rates for IUI vary widely, ranging from a modest 2.7% to an impressive 66%, indicating the influence of diverse regional and patient-related factors on treatment outcomes. This variability underscores the need for individualized treatment strategies to maximize success rates in fertility management.
Local data collected in 2020 on the cost-effectiveness of assisted reproductive technologies in Saudi Arabia showed a live birth rate of 7.9% per initiated IUI cycle. Studies from the southern region of the country revealed that augmenting the luteal phase with vaginal progesterone and using recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone for ovulation induction led to improved IUI success rates. Additional research from Tabuk and Qassim reported pregnancy success rates of 16% and 7.9%, respectively.
Despite the wealth of global studies on IUI success rates, local research remains scarce. This research seeks to fill that gap by examining the success rate of IUI and the factors influencing it within the local context. By understanding these determinants, the study aims to help refine treatment protocols and improve outcomes for infertile couples. The findings will contribute to the broader understanding of fertility treatments, enabling healthcare providers to offer more personalized care and assist patients in setting realistic expectations for their fertility journey.
Related topics:
