THE FAMILY YOU’VE ALWAYS DREAMED OF
ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
Artificial Insemination is a widely used assisted reproduction technique to help achieve pregnancy, often employed in the treatment of various reproductive disorders. It is a completely outpatient procedure, painless, and does not require any downtime. The process involves only minimal medical treatment and monitoring, allowing the patient to continue with their regular daily activities. It should not be confused with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), as the goal of artificial insemination is to facilitate natural fertilization within the fallopian tubes, which is where fertilization normally occurs.
STUDY AND DIAGNOSIS OF STERILITY
Each patient is unique, which is why each treatment at fivclínic+ is individualized. The purpose is to determine the source of infertility in the couple and design the most appropriate IVF treatment. Request an appointment without commitment.
WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION?
Artificial insemination, also known as intrauterine insemination (IUI), involves introducing a prepared semen sample directly into the uterine cavity during ovulation. Typically, a mild ovarian stimulation or induction is performed beforehand to enhance follicular growth, thereby increasing the chances of successful pregnancy.
TYPE OF ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
INSEMINATION WITH SPOUSE'S SEMEN
When the semen sample is from the couple, we are dealing with conjugal artificial insemination. It is a procedure indicated in:
– young women (under 37)
– normal or acceptable ovarian reserve
– leaky tubes (at least one)
– mild male factor
– semen sample with a minimum of motile spermatozoa (REM ≥ 5M)
– cases of sterility of unknown origin with a short evolution
– pregnancy search time of less than 2 years
INSEMINATION WITH DONOR SEMEN
When a semen sample from a semen bank is used, we refer to donor artificial insemination. In this case, it can be done without previous hormonal treatment and is indicated in:
– women without a partner
– women with a female partner
– absence of sperm in the ejaculate (azospermia) and testicular failure
– men carriers of certain hereditary diseases that can be transmitted to their offspring and cannot be ruled out with other techniques
WHAT TESTS ARE REQUIRED BEFORE THE ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION?
The artificial insemination process begins with gathering and reviewing the patient’s personal and family medical history.
TESTS FOR WOMEN BEFORE THE ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
COMPLETE GYNECOLOGICAL EXAM
This ensures that everything is functioning properly or helps diagnose any potential issues, allowing for appropriate pre-treatment if necessary.
TESTS TO ASSESS OVARIAN RESERVE
– Vaginal ultrasound: Performed during the first days of the menstrual cycle (Day 2 or 3) to count the number of follicles. A normal count ranges from 6 to 12 follicles at the beginning of the cycle. The number of follicles naturally decreases with age.
– Hormone Analysis: Tests for ovarian function-related hormones (AMH, FSH, LH, E2), as well as thyroid-related hormones.
TESTS TO CHECK FALLOPIAN TUBE PATENCY
These are not performed in every case, but when necessary, they are done through a Hysterosalpingography (HSG) or Hysterosonography (a vaginal ultrasound using saline solution injected into the uterus).
OTHER HEALTH ASSESSMENTS
Weight, height, and blood pressure are part of the overall health evaluation. Additionally, blood tests and hormone studies may be requested.
TESTS FOR MEN BEFORE THE ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
COMPLETE SEMEN ANALYSIS
A semen analysis, or spermiogram, is the standard test for assessing male fertility. It evaluates the quality of the semen by analyzing the characteristics that determine the quality of the ejaculate. To perform this test, 3 to 5 days of abstinence are required. The results will indicate whether the semen is normal (normozoospermia) or if there are any underlying issues.
ADDITIONAL TESTS
If abnormal results are found in the semen analysis, or if there are issues with sperm concentration, motility, or morphology, further tests may be recommended. These may include hormone testing, karyotyping, sperm FISH analysis, or even a testicular biopsy.
INFERTILITY STUDY AND DIAGNOSIS
At fivclínic, the study of infertility or recurrent miscarriages is carried out in a personalized way in order to individualize the treatment and thus optimize the result. From the first visit, our objective is clear: to achieve pregnancy.
HOW IS ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION PERFORMED?
1. FOLLICULAR GROWTH MONITORING
Artificial insemination treatment usually begins early in the menstrual cycle, with ultrasound and blood tests used to monitor follicular growth.
2. CONTROLLED OVARIAN STIMULATION
On the third day of the cycle, controlled ovarian stimulation is typically initiated through hormone administration to stimulate the growth of ovarian follicles, following a personalized protocol for each patient. Stimulation is monitored with ultrasounds over the course of 8 to 10 days until an adequate ovarian response is achieved.
3. MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION (HCG)
Once a follicle reaches preovulatory size, a medication (hCG) is administered to trigger the LH surge needed for final maturation and ovulation, which occurs 36 hours later. The insemination is then scheduled.
4. SPERM CAPACITATION
Prior to insemination, approximately 2 to 3 hours before the procedure, the male partner provides a semen sample, which is processed in the laboratory to optimize sperm quality. In cases of donor insemination, the selected sample is thawed, ensuring compatibility with the woman’s blood type, Rh factor, and physical characteristics (phenotype).
5. INSEMINATION
During the insemination procedure, a speculum is used to visualize the cervix, and a catheter is inserted to introduce the semen sample directly into the uterus.
The entire artificial insemination treatment lasts about 12 to 14 days from the start of ovarian stimulation. It is a simple procedure performed in an outpatient setting. No anesthesia, analgesia, or anxiolytics are required, and the procedure is not painful. It is similar to a routine gynecological examination.
WHAT IS THE SUCCESS RATE OF ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION?
Statistically, the pregnancy success rate for artificial insemination using a partner’s sperm ranges between 10-20%. It is a straightforward technique with minimal complications. Depending on the woman’s age and specific clinical situation, no more than 3 to 4 attempts are usually recommended. In cases of donor insemination, the pregnancy rate is higher, at around 20-25%, with up to 6 attempts allowed before considering a different technique.
This means that a patient could have a cumulative pregnancy probability of 45% over three cycles with partner sperm, with even higher success rates for donor insemination. Proper evaluation and diagnosis are crucial for selecting patients who have the highest likelihood of success with this method.
Cryopreservation is the best way to maintain the ability to achieve a pregnancy later.
WHY CHOOSE FIVCLÍNIC+?
PROVEN EXPERIENCE
We offer you access to a team of reproductive medicine specialists with over 30 years of experience. Our commitment to biomedical research and scientific evidence forms the foundation of our clinical excellence, driving innovation that directly benefits patients.
EXCEPTIONAL PREGNANCY RATES
Our success rates are approximately 65% with patients’ own eggs and 80% with donor eggs. Achieving these outcomes involves conducting a thorough fertility study and personalized diagnosis to tailor treatments to each individual case.
PIONEERS IN INNOVATIVE TREATMENTS
As part of Clínic Barcelona, a leading center in research, development, and innovation, we participate in cutting-edge research studies and publish our results in top scientific journals. Our clear objective is to enhance the effectiveness of reproductive techniques.
STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES AND CUTTING-EDGE LABORATORY
We feature the latest technological advancements, such as ICSI and real-time embryo monitoring, allowing you to follow every step of your treatment. We work with the new reproduction laboratory of Clínic Barcelona, which is newly established and equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
PERSONALIZED AND CLOSE ATTENTION = SATISFIED PATIENTS
Every patient is unique, and our team’s involvement reflects that. We guarantee personalized and compassionate care to support you throughout your journey to motherhood, addressing any needs that arise along the way. The patient surveys we’ve conducted over the years affirm the quality of our service and the professionalism of our team. Your time, comfort, and safety are our top priorities, and we strive to meet your expectations with a high level of satisfaction.
CALL US OR, IF YOU PREFER, LEAVE US YOUR CONTACT NUMBER AND WE WILL CALL YOU
+34 93 227 57 44
