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Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Increase your chances of pregnancy with IUI, placing sperm directly into the uterus to support conception.

Book a Fertility Consult
I have a question
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Increase your chances of pregnancy with IUI, placing sperm directly into the uterus to support conception.

book a consult
I have a question

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) — also known as artificial insemination — involves placing washed sperm directly into the uterus at the time of ovulation. This process helps the sperm reach the fallopian tubes faster, bypassing cervical or vaginal barriers that can make conception difficult.
IUI may be recommended for:
  • Mild male-factor infertility
  • Unexplained infertility
  • Cervical mucus problems or sperm transport issues
For more severe sperm concerns, IVF with ICSI may be a better option.

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Sperm Preparation

Before insemination, the sperm sample is carefully washed and concentrated to remove natural chemicals that could irritate the uterus.
The process:
  • Semen is collected (usually at the clinic).
  • The sample is allowed to liquefy, then rinsed with special fluids (“sperm media”).
  • Gradient washing improves sperm quality and motility.
  • The result is a clean, concentrated sperm sample, ready for insemination.
This lab process takes about two hours.

The IUI Procedure

The insemination itself is simple, quick, and painless, similar to a Pap smear.
  • A thin catheter is gently inserted through the cervix into the uterus.
  • The sperm sample is released into the uterine cavity.
  • A small amount of spotting or discharge afterward is normal and does not affect success.
  • No anesthesia or bed rest is needed — you can resume normal activities immediately.
The procedure is done once per cycle, timed precisely with ovulation to optimize fertilization chances.

Ovulation and Medications

To increase the number of eggs released, medications may be prescribed such as:
  • Clomid or gonadotropins (to stimulate egg development)
  • hCG or Lupron (to trigger ovulation)
Your provider will design a customized medication plan and schedule monitoring visits to track follicle growth and hormone levels.

Gonadotropin-Stimulated Cycle (Detailed Protocol)

Gonadotropins are natural hormones that stimulate the ovaries to develop multiple follicles, increasing pregnancy chances. Close monitoring helps prevent side effects like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
  • Baseline ultrasound and pregnancy test on cycle day 22–25.
  • Start Lupron injections (0.1 cc each morning) once the test is negative.
  • Lupron prevents premature ovulation by temporarily suppressing natural hormones.
  • Begin injections as directed, while reducing Lupron to 0.05 cc daily.
  • Continue daily Lupron and gonadotropins.
  • First ultrasound: day 7–10 of medication cycle.
  • Typical stimulation lasts 12–14 days.
Frequent ultrasounds and blood tests track follicle growth and estrogen levels.
Contact the clinic immediately if you experience symptoms of OHSS:
  • Rapid weight gain
  • Bloating or pelvic pain
  • Shortness of breath or nausea
  • When follicles are mature, you’ll take hCG to trigger ovulation.
  • Ovulation occurs ~40 hours later; IUI is scheduled two days after hCG.
  • Stop Lupron and gonadotropins after hCG (take your morning Lupron dose on the trigger day).
  • Pregnancy test about 14–16 days after IUI (or ~20 days after hCG).
  • Early pregnancy symptoms can mimic PMS; avoid testing at home too early.
  • If positive, an ultrasound is scheduled 5–6 weeks post-IUI to confirm pregnancy.

Donor Sperm and Inclusive Care

Donor sperm can be used for IUI procedures. California IVF assists with donor selection and coordinates safe shipping and storage in our liquid nitrogen tanks.
We are proud to support same-sex couples and single women in their fertility journey.

Common Side Effects and Outcomes

You may experience mild side effects such as:
  • Abdominal bloating or cramping
  • Breast tenderness
  • Mild nausea
Periods may be heavier than usual after treatment.
Once a heartbeat is confirmed on ultrasound, the pregnancy typically progresses normally, and care transitions to your obstetrician.

Start Your IUI Journey

At California IVF Fertility Center, our specialists combine medical expertise with personalized care to help you achieve pregnancy through IUI and ovulation stimulation treatments. Whether you’re just beginning fertility care or exploring advanced options, our team will guide you through each step with compassion and clarity.

Schedule a consultation today to learn how IUI can help you reach your fertility goals.
Book a Fertility Consult

Why Choose California IVF?

High Success Rates – Over 75% clinical pregnancy rate in patients under 40 using a single embryo that passed genetic testing.
Comprehensive Fertility Care – From initial testing and surgery to IVF, ICSI, PGT genetic screening, and donor egg/sperm programs, all under one roof.
Cost-Effective Multi-Cycle Packages – Specially designed packages that save you money per cycle while providing flexibility and ongoing support throughout your journey.
Scientific Expertise & Compassionate Care – Board-certified reproductive endocrinologists, supported by experienced nurse practitioners and embryologists, provide care in a welcoming environment.

Support You Can Trust

Our clinic is a close-knit team of dedicated professionals, creating a warm and supportive environment for every patient. We value open communication and are here to guide you through every step of your journey. While we know not every path leads to pregnancy, our team is committed to making your experience as positive and caring as possible, supporting you every step of the way.

Ernest Zeringue MD

Medical Director

Gary Gross

MD

Linda Zeringue

FNP-BC

Ashley Cook

FNP-C

Lindsey DeBruler

DNP | FNP-BC

We are proud to announce our selection in the top 50 clinics selected by Newsweek for inclusion in the list of America’s Best Fertility Clinics. Modern medicine is what makes us great, but our staff is what really set us apart. We are currently ranked 36th in the nation!

UC Davis Medical Center Health System Building

California IVF and Insurance

California IVF provides fertility care for patients enrolled in the major insurance networks throughout Northern California.  In addition to a collaborative arrangement with UC Davis, we are also contracted with Sutter Health, Dignity Health/Mercy, NorthBay Healthcare, Tricare, the VA, and most private insurance plans. Many Kaiser patients come to us when infertility and IVF services aren’t covered. 

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UC Davis Health System

Our collaboration with UC Davis began in July 2011. Our physicians hold university appointments, are actively involved in resident and medical student education, and have access to patient records within the UC Davis system, ensuring seamless, coordinated care.

Research and Development

We are actively involved in fertility research with several UC Davis projects focused on reproductive genetics. We are also advancing technologies that improve genetic testing of embryos and measure cellular products beyond current capabilities, helping to develop the next generation of fertility innovations.

Insurance Benefits

We partner with most major insurance networks to help patients maximize their fertility benefits. Our dedicated insurance coordinators guide patients every step of the way, ensuring they understand and make the most of their coverage.

What Our Happy Parents Say

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Couldn’t be more thankful for Cal IVF & Dr. Zeringue! The staff & nurses were really amazing & were always there to reassure me whenever I needed it. Got pregnant in our first IVF cycle! Will forever be so grateful for this team 🤍

Katie M.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We had an overall great experience with this clinic. Dr. Zeringue and his team were very professional and helpful. We had a very successful outcome.

Dana L.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Absolutely incredible staff, the kindness and thoughtfulness of each and every individual person was so sincere. After trying for years, two miscarriages and one ectopic pregnancy, my dreams of having a child was gone. Dr. Zeringue is the best Doctor for the job. My first time doing IVF and I am pregnant. It's all thanks to the wonderful team at California IVF. The entire process was smooth and stress-free. I 100% recommend Dr. Zeringue and his team for your IVF experience.

Rosina S.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

They help make dreams come true.. Thank you ALL!!

Denea S.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I absolutely love the staff at California IVF!!! Over 3 years ago we started facing our battle with fertility and received help from California IVF. Dr. Z and his staff were so supportive and helpful. Our first transfer was not successful,but we tried again and we had our daughter. Now 3 years later we are back at it again with our 2 remaining embryos. The staff remembered us right away and have been most helpful is starting up this process again.

Krisha P.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Had the best experience with dr. Zeringue and his staff. After a year of trying other options with other clinics, We were successful on our first ivf cycle here at California IVF, and couldn’t be happier we are now expecting twins.

Albert A.

Questions You Might Have

IUI is often recommended for couples with unexplained infertility, mild male-factor infertility, or cervical mucus issues. It’s also an excellent option for single women and same-sex couples using donor sperm.
Most patients describe IUI as painless or mildly uncomfortable, similar to a Pap smear. You might experience slight cramping or spotting afterward, but you can resume normal activities immediately.
Every patient is different, but many people achieve pregnancy within three to six IUI cycles. Your provider will review your progress after each cycle and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
The main risks are multiple pregnancies and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), both of which are rare. Regular ultrasound and blood monitoring throughout the cycle helps minimize these risks and ensures your safety.

Request a Consultation

By submitting this form, I consent to be contacted by California IVF Fertility Clinic via phone, text, email, or mail. Message and data rates may apply. Consent is not a condition of purchase. I agree to the Terms of Service and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. Reply STOP to opt out.
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