Artificial insemination (AI) is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure where sperm is collected and inserted into the cervix or uterus of a woman to try and achieve pregnancy.
AI may be used in donor assisted conception, fertility treatment or where there are other reasons why conception would be unable to occur through sexual intercourse.
Intra-cervical insemination (ICI)
Intra-cervical insemination (ICI) is when sperm is introduced to the woman’s cervix using a syringe.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is when sperm is introduced directly into the woman’s uterus using a long, fine tube.
IUI is performed by a fertility provider and will involve washing the sperm, to screen for health and infectious disease, before use. This involves separating out the sperm from the seminal fluid and removing any dead or slow-moving sperm.
AI may be combined with ovarian stimulation (taking medicines to induce the ovaries to release eggs) and/or ovulation tracking (using blood tests and ultrasounds to understand when ovulation is likely to occur).
Artificial insemination also occurs in a non-medical setting where this is arranged between private individuals.