-
1. Ovaries control and stimulation
In non-stimulated cycles, IUI occurs between the 12th and 15th days of the menstrual cycle (in which the first is the day on which the menstrual flow appears). Blood tests may be needed to help determine when ovulation occurs.
In cases where administration of ovulation-inducing drugs is required, the development of oocytes is controlled by periodic ultrasound scan examinations. When the oocyte reaches the appropriate level of maturation, an injection (LH, or hormonal luteo-stimulant) is given to help release the egg. In these cases, insemination should be done 36 to 40 hours later. It is very important that the patient respects the timings indicated by the gynaecologist for the administration of the various injections, since an error at this point may jeopardise the entire treatment process.
2. Selection of the sperm donor and obtaining the sperm sample
The donor is selected by Ferticentro, based on very strict medical criteria and after a rigorous process of selection and exclusion of genetic diseases and psychological evaluation. The sperm used at Ferticentro comes from donors selected by the clinic, or from certified foreign sperm banks, with excellent and rigorous quality control methods. The sperm donation is a voluntary act, and the patient(s) is only responsible for costs incurred associated with laboratorial expenses such as sperm collection, maintenance and treatment. The entire process is carried out with full assurance of confidentiality and with the informed consent of the patient(s).
3. Insemination
The process of insemination with donor sperm is identical to that of Intra-Uterine Insemination but using only cryopreserved sperm from a sperm bank.
For the insemination procedure, the gynaecologist uses a speculum and inserts into the uterus a catheter (small, flexible tube) loaded with previously selected and treated spermatozoa.
It is a quick processwhich takes a few minutes; after insemination the woman should rest for a brief period and then go on with her normal life.