IUI stands for intrauterine insemination and is also known as donor insemination, alternative insemination, or artificial insemination. This method works by putting sperm cells directly into the uterus around the time the female is ovulating. This helps the sperm get closer to the egg and thereby cutting down on the time and distance sperm has to travel, making it easier to fertilize the egg.

In natural intercourse, the male partner injects about 200 million sperm into the vagina of which about a million make it through the cervix and into the uterus due to flow back, the acidic environment of the vagina, and the small passage of the cervix. And as the gradual attrition continues, there is just about 20% chance of conception each cycle – and these require the best of conditions to happen.

IUI is a relatively simple procedure, which essentially reduces the travel and hostilities – and puts millions of sperms at the head of the uterus which greatly increases the chances of conception and birth. It is a less expensive than other types of fertility treatments. The procedure increases the chances of pregnancy, but everyone’s body is different, so there’s no guarantee that IUI will definitely work.