Important Information about IUI Risks
Before investing your time, energy, money and hope in IUI, it’s important that you take a realistic look at the IUI procedure and all that it involves. As wonderful as it is to have an option when you’ve been trying to get pregnant unsuccessfully, there is a chance that IUI is not the best option for you. We’ve compiled a list of points that you should consider before pursuing IUI.
The Cold Hard Facts about IUI
• Though a straightforward process, IUI does bring with it certain health risk with the most common being side effects such as brief but moderate to severe cramping of the uterus and the possibility of an infection of the upper female genital tract if the procedure is performed in a setting that is less than sanitary.
• Even with the strict screening process used by sperm banks, there is always a risk of catching an STI from donor sperm.
• Multiple births that can range from twins to octuplets are more common with IUI than with regular conception. Multiple births also increase the risk of miscarriages and low birth weights.
• Fertility drugs often used along with IUI can cause a very rare condition called OHSS or Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome. This rare condition, that causes an enlargement of the ovaries and build up of fluid in the abdominal region is serious and requires immediate medical care.
• Success rates of IUI are about 10 to just over 20 percent when the sperm count of the male is good and the female has very healthy fallopian tubes.
• Going through IUI and other fertility treatments can be emotionally draining on couples. The use of fertility drugs along with stress and unsuccessful treatments can cause anxiety and depression. All of these things can also weaken the immune system and lead to other health problems.
• The process of intrauterine insemination can also be somewhat financially stressful. The cost of treatment begins at around five hundred British pounds and there is no guarantee of success. Sometimes multiple treatments may be recommended, though this also doesn’t guarantee a pregnancy.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Your desire to get pregnant and have a baby may be great and even all-consuming, but you need to be realistic when weighing the pros and cons of IUI or any other fertility treatment. Take the time to learn all that you can about the options available and don’t be afraid to speak candidly with your partner and medical professional about the risks involved with each procedure. This is your body after all.
or sign up
Post a comment