Intrauterine Insemination – IUI

What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is the mildest and most affordable first step in assisted reproduction, ideal for couples looking to increase their chances of conception without invasive techniques. The procedure takes just a few minutes, requires no anesthesia, and allows for immediate return to daily activities. With a specialized medical team, 3D ultrasound technology, and personalized guidance, our clinic offers a safe, friendly environment where every attempt becomes a targeted opportunity for pregnancy.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a targeted, non-invasive method of assisted reproduction that significantly increases the chance of pregnancy. During the IUI process, specially processed sperm is placed directly inside the uterus, bypassing the natural barriers encountered on the path from the cervix to the fallopian tubes.

This way, more vital sperm reach close to the egg at the right time, shortening the distance and enhancing the opportunity for fertilization. The technique is also known as "artificial insemination" and is often chosen as the first therapeutic step before more complex solutions, offering effectiveness without the physical or financial burden of other methods.

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In which cases is IUI recommended?

IUI is not applied in every case, but it offers excellent results for selected indications. Below are the most common cases where IUI is the recommended choice.

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Women under 35 with a short infertility period

IUI is mainly indicated for women under 35, especially when the period of trying to conceive is less than 12 months. In this age group, success rates are higher due to typically good ovarian function and better treatment response. Moreover, the method is a mild intervention preferred as a first step before considering more complex techniques such as IVF.

When tubal patency is confirmed

A necessary prerequisite for IUI is that the fallopian tubes are open—i.e., no adhesions or blockages. Proper patency allows the egg to travel toward the fallopian tubes and meet the sperm, maintaining the natural course of fertilization. Confirmation is done via hysterosalpingography or foam-based tubal testing.

Anovulation and ovulation induction

For women without ovulation (e.g., PCOS), IUI can be combined with medication to induce ovulation. With the administration of specific drugs (like clomiphene or FSH), one or two follicles develop and are synchronized with the sperm injection, increasing the chances of pregnancy.

Cervical mucus abnormalities

When there is a deficiency or unusual composition of cervical mucus, sperm cannot effectively pass through the cervix. In these cases, IUI in a natural cycle (without ovarian stimulation) is particularly helpful, bypassing the cervix and placing sperm directly in the uterus, removing the obstacle.

Mild sperm abnormalities

The method is suitable for couples where the man has mild sperm parameter issues, such as moderate motility or slightly reduced concentration. Through laboratory “washing,” the most vital sperm are isolated, improving sample quality and enhancing fertilization chances.

Cervical lesions after HPV treatments

Women who have undergone cervical interventions due to HPV, such as loop or laser procedures, may develop adhesions or scarring that hinder sperm entry. IUI offers a solution by bypassing cervical abnormalities and allowing sperm to reach the uterus directly.

Use of donor sperm

IUI is the most recommended method for couples or women using donor sperm, such as in cases of severe male factor infertility or in single-parent/same-sex families. The processing and safe injection of the sample is done under the highest safety and quality control standards.

Preparation before the procedure

Proper preparation before IUI plays a decisive role in its success. Below are all the key stages leading up to the procedure.

Ovulation monitoring

Timing the procedure

Sperm sample preparation

Precisely identifying ovulation is essential for timing the IUI.

This can be achieved in two ways:

Home ovulation tests

Urine tests detect the sudden surge of the LH hormone, indicating ovulation will occur in the next 24–36 hours.

Transvaginal ultrasound

By visualizing the follicles on the ovaries, the doctor determines the ideal time for insemination.
Often, an hCG injection is given when the dominant follicle reaches the right size to control the exact timing of ovulation.

A detailed visualization of fetal development inside the uterus, representing the outcome after successful IUI treatment at FertUlity.

A medical professional holds a detailed anatomical model of a uterus with fetus, illustrating IUI procedure mechanics at FertUlity.

Once ovulation is confirmed or induced with medication, IUI is scheduled exactly 24–36 hours later.

This timing precision allows for optimal alignment of sperm injection with egg release, enhancing fertilization chances. The treating doctor designs a personalized plan for each case, including clear instructions on when the woman should come to the clinic.

On the day of insemination, the partner provides a sperm sample in a specially designated clinic area. If donor sperm is used, the frozen sample is thawed.

Then:

The sample undergoes laboratory “washing,” a process that isolates the most motile and morphologically normal sperm.
Harmful substances that could cause uterine cramping or inflammation are removed.
The final sample is small in volume but highly concentrated in healthy sperm, increasing the likelihood of success.

A doctor and patient examine an ultrasound image together, illustrating the IUI success evaluation process at FertUlity clinic.

Step-by-step IUI procedure

The intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedure is simple, brief, and organized into three main stages performed with precision, comfort, and safety for the woman.

Preparation and positioning

The woman is positioned on a gynecological chair, like during a regular check-up. The doctor uses a sterile tool (speculum) to gently open the vagina and access the cervix. The processed sperm sample, enhanced in the lab, is loaded into a syringe connected to a very thin and flexible catheter. The catheter is then gently inserted through the cervix into the uterus. Placement is painless and takes about one minute.

Sperm injection

Once the catheter is properly inside the uterine cavity, the sperm sample is slowly and carefully injected in a steady flow to prevent cramping or discomfort. The volume is small (about 0.4–0.6 ml), but highly concentrated and rich in vital sperm. This process takes about another minute. Then, the catheter and speculum are gently removed in order.

After the insemination

The woman remains lying down for 5–10 minutes to allow the sperm to move naturally toward the fallopian tubes, where it may meet the egg. She can then resume her daily activities, as no recovery is required. IUI is timed as close as possible to ovulation—either six hours before or after—to maximize fertilization chances.
The egg survives up to 24 hours post-release, while the processed sperm retains its fertilizing ability for up to 48 hours. At FertUlity, the procedure is performed exclusively by experienced specialists to ensure the precision, comfort, and effectiveness of each attempt.

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How successful is IUI? Success rates & factors

IUI success depends on various factors related to the couple’s fertility and cycle quality. A general average success rate is about 15% per attempt, but this number can vary greatly. A woman’s age is crucial: under 35, success rates are significantly higher, while after 38, they noticeably decrease. Additionally, sperm quality and motility, tubal patency, and correct timing with ovulation directly impact outcomes.

IUI relies on a strategy of repeated cycles, as it is a mild, painless, and affordable treatment that can be applied consistently without burdening the woman. With proper evaluation by a fertility specialist and persistence, cumulative success rates improve significantly. Each case requires a personalized approach, and the overall strategy is determined through scientific monitoring to ensure the highest chance of pregnancy.

How much does intrauterine insemination cost?

IUI is one of the most financially accessible assisted reproduction treatments, making it ideal for couples wanting to start with a mild and effective method. The cost can vary depending on whether it’s done in a natural or stimulated cycle, as well as additional required medical services (e.g., ultrasounds, blood tests, sperm processing).

At FertUlity, we maintain full price transparency and offer flexible options, whether it’s a single attempt or multi-cycle packages at preferential rates. Each financial proposal is designed to provide the best possible cost-effectiveness for every couple.

For detailed information about prices and available packages, visit our full pricing page.

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Frequently Asked Questions About IUI Procedure

How many times can I repeat IUI?

IUI can be applied for up to 3–4 consecutive cycles, provided that the basic fertility factors are met (patent tubes, adequate ovarian function, good semen analysis). After that, the protocol is usually re-evaluated, or a change in treatment strategy is suggested.

Is the procedure painful?

The procedure is generally painless. Some women may feel mild discomfort or light cramping during catheter insertion, which lasts only a few minutes and subsides immediately.

Is anesthesia required?

No. The injection is done without anesthesia or sedation. The woman is awake throughout and can return to her normal activities immediately after.

When should I take a pregnancy test?

Pregnancy detection is done with a blood test (beta-hCG) 14 days after the IUI, ensuring a clear and reliable result.

What is the chance of twins?

When IUI is accompanied by mild stimulation, the chance of multiple pregnancy is under 8%. Ultrasound monitoring is used to avoid overstimulation.

Can I use frozen sperm?

Yes. The procedure is equally effective with frozen sperm, as long as cryopreservation and thawing were properly done under lab conditions.

Are there side effects from the medications?

With mild stimulation, side effects are rare and mild. The most common are bloating, breast tenderness, or slight discomfort in the ovarian area.

What if the first attempt fails?

All cycle data (follicles, timing, sperm sample) are evaluated, and the protocol is adjusted for the next cycle to optimize results. Every failure is a chance to adapt.

How long does the visit take in total?

The visit takes a total of 60 to 90 minutes, including sample collection, lab preparation, and the insemination itself. The woman can leave right after and resume her day normally.

Our Doctors

In an era where fertility requires knowledge, care, and substantial guidance, FertUlity is not an impersonal clinic. It is two people who look you in the eye and accompany you step by step on the journey you dream of.

Dr. Chrysostomos (Makis) Papadopoulos Obstetrician – Gynecologist, MD, PhDc, MIC I

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Dr. Chrysostomos Papadopoulos - Specialist in Infertility, Endocrinology & Menopause in Athens

Dr. Maria Oikonomou Obstetrician – Gynecologist

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The First Step Starts Now

You don’t need to have all the answers to begin.
All it takes is one first step, and a team that truly listens.

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FertulityThrough the Words of our Parents

100% genuine, public Google reviews.
Because every fertility journey begins with honesty and trust.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 12 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Μαρια 
 26 days ago
 
 
  The word "thank you" to Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is too small to describe the gratitude we feel for this man. I am pregnant after IVF, having succeeded on the first attempt, and we owe this exclusively to our doctor. First Contact & Communication: From the very first contact, he won us over with his kindness, enthusiasm and willingness to dedicate as much time as we needed. Willing to explain everything in every detail, he solved every question we had in depth — not even a professor to students would analyze them with such patience and contagiousness! Scientific Training: He is an excellent scientist, with deep knowledge of the subject, a perfectionist and focused professional who leaves absolutely nothing to chance. He designed the right treatment for us, solving every problem down to the last detail, making us feel that whatever problem arises, it is certain that it will be solved. HUMANITY & SUPPORT: The most important thing, however, is his humanity. Communication with him was Immediate and he always had as much time as you needed on the phone to solve every question. He showed a deep, real interest, embracing us not just as a doctor, but as if he were our brother. We highly recommend him to every couple starting this journey. He deserves blind trust! We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the greatest miracle of our lives!

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   Alexandra 
 52 days ago
 
 
  I don't often write reviews, but I feel that Mr. Makis truly deserves it. From the very first moment, he made me feel safe and confident. He listened carefully to what was on my mind, answered every question I had, and explained everything in a simple way, always based on scientific data. Many times, he even sent me relevant scientific studies so that I could better understand why he was suggesting a particular approach. But what stood out to me the most was that he didn't stop at the appointment. He followed up, was genuinely interested in my progress, and was available when I needed him. This is something you rarely encounter. Fortunately, he returned to Greece. He is one of the few doctors who, beyond their knowledge, remain above all human beings. He makes you feel like he sees you as a person and not as just another incident.

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   Matina 
 69 days ago
 
 
  A big thank you to Dr. Makis Papadopoulos who supported us from day one, who checked every little detail, who explained to us every move-step, every test, every medication for the reason we were doing it and what we would achieve. With incredible experience, knowledge, a lot of patience (because we had two other failed attempts with another doctor) and trust, within 8 months he adapted the protocols for our case and we achieved the positive result and we hold in our arms a priceless diamond. Above all, a rare person, calm and always available to listen to our concerns and reassure us. I highly recommend him!

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   Eva 
 93 days ago
 
 
  Thanks to Dr Makis Papadopoulos, I am now holding my two beautiful babies in my arms! He is a true expert. Professional with a human centric approach, friendly and empathetic, always available to answer our (many many) questions. I trust Dr Makis blindly and, honestly, I cannot recommend him enough!
  
 
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   Ivy 
 100 days ago
 
 
  My experience with Dr. Makis took me from a clinical stagnation to an incredible breakthrough, highly recommend Dr. Makis! Navigating the exhausting world of IVF, you know how devastating it is to watch your protocol dosages go up while your results go down. After three intense, high-dosage cycles with a previous clinic, I was left feeling incredibly discouraged. Despite escalating medications and growth hormones, my blastocyst yield was dwindling, culminating in a heartbreaking round with zero blastocysts. I knew I needed a doctor who didn't just follow a standard script, but who truly understood the nuances of egg quality and customized protocols. That is when I found Dr. Makis. Dr. Makis completely revolutionized my treatment plan. Instead of just pushing maximum dosages, he took a highly strategic, tailored approach. The result? Quality over pure protocol size. While my previous doctors kept increasing the medication dosages (which yielded fewer or zero blastocysts), Dr. Makis completely changed the strategy. He lowered the heavy stimulation, introduced smart egg-quality support (like melatonin), changed the protocol style entirely, and achieved a 700% increase in blastocysts compared to my best previous rounds. Beyond the incredible results, Dr. Makis brings a level of expertise, precision, and reassuring care that is rare to find. He looks at you as an individual, not a statistic, and knows exactly how to pivot when traditional routes fail. If you are looking for a specialist who can turn a difficult prognosis into an overwhelming success, look no further than Dr. Makis. I am incredibly grateful for his care.
  
 
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   Olga 
 111 days ago
 
 
  Dr. Makis Papadopoulos was excellent, professional, and very reassuring throughout the entire process. Thanks to his expertise and guidance, we were able to identify the issue early and take the appropriate steps from the beginning. He took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all our questions with patience, and made us feel comfortable and confident throughout our journey. We truly appreciated his caring approach, professionalism, and dedication. Highly recommended!
  
 
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   Euaggelia 
 122 days ago
 
 
  Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is an excellent scientist and above all a rare person! He is an approachable and smiling doctor, with excellent medical knowledge, who from the first moment I met him made me feel comfortable and trust him completely, answering every question I had with patience and documenting every answer with scientific studies and articles! The most important thing, however, is that Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is always there on the other end of the line to listen to you and reassure you without a trace of haste, a doctor who truly cares and makes you feel like he is your own person! Makis, thank you very much for everything!!! I am very lucky to have met you!

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   Anastasia 
 129 days ago
 
 
  Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is an excellent scientist with a human-centered interest. Our collaboration was excellent from the very beginning and he made me feel confident and secure by explaining every step of the process in great detail. I highly recommend him!

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   Fay 
 131 days ago
 
 
  Dr Makis Papadopoulos is very professional, caring and attentive. Very thorough in explaining the whole process throughout every step. Thank you! Highly recommended!!
  
 
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   Christina 
 134 days ago
 
 
  I would like to share my experience with Dr. Makis Papadopoulos, an outstanding gynecologist and scientist. We first connected in the summer of 2024, while he was based in Germany, through a mutual acquaintance, following a particularly challenging period for us. Prior to meeting him, we had gone through repeated unsuccessful attempts of stimulation and fertilization with other gynecologists. Unfortunately, those approaches relied largely on standardized protocols, without sufficient personalization to address the specific needs of my case. From the very beginning, Dr. Makis stood out for his human-centered approach and his willingness to dedicate time to truly understand our situation in depth. With strong, up-to-date scientific knowledge, he approaches every case holistically, focusing on individualized treatment and adapting protocols to the patient's unique needs. Throughout our collaboration, which now spans approximately two years (with a few breaks on our side), he has consistently been available, supportive, and clear in his guidance. He inspired confidence and helped us stay positive even during difficult phases of the journey. Beyond his scientific expertise, what truly sets him apart is his genuine care for the person behind each case: his empathy, honesty, and continuous effort to achieve the best possible outcome. My husband and I are deeply grateful for his support and guidance, and we now feel ready and optimistic to move forward to the next final stage. We highly recommend him to anyone seeking a gynecologist with true expertise, professionalism, and compassion. I would like to share my experience with Dr. Makis Papadopoulos, an excellent gynecologist and scientist. We met in the summer of 2024, when he was in Germany, through a mutual acquaintance, after a particularly demanding period for us. Before meeting him, we had gone through repeated failed attempts at stimulation and fertilization with other gynecologists. Unfortunately, the approaches that had been followed were mainly based on standardized protocols, without the necessary individualization to the specifics of my case. From the beginning, Dr. Makis stood out for his human approach and his willingness to spend time to understand our case in depth. With modern knowledge and scientific training, he approaches each issue multidimensionally, emphasizing the individualization of treatment and adapting the protocols to the real needs of the patient. During our collaboration, which now spans about two years (with short breaks on our part), he was always available, supportive and clear in his guidance. He inspired confidence in us and helped us remain optimistic even in difficult phases. In addition to his scientific competence, what sets him apart is his genuine interest in the person behind each case: his empathy, his honesty and his constant effort to achieve the best possible outcome. My husband and I thank him warmly for his support and guidance and we now feel ready and optimistic to move on to the next final stage. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a gynecologist with real knowledge, professionalism and humanity.

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   Faidra 
 135 days ago
 
 
  Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is an excellent gynecologist and above all an excellent person! I truly thank him for his support and care during the egg freezing process. Although my case was particularly demanding, he stood by me with patience, knowledge, great experience and real interest. Our communication was direct and human, while his availability at the many appointments made me feel safe at every step. The protocols were designed specifically for me, aiming for the best possible result, while also taking into account the cost of the medications. I recommend him with all my heart to every woman who wants to trust someone for something so important and sensitive for her.

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   Iliana 
 137 days ago
 
 
  I highly recommend Dr. Makis, he is an incredible specialist. My journey was far from easy, encountering several challenges that  made the process feel overwhelming at times. What sets him apart is his willingness to go beyond standard procedures. He developed a specialized, custom protocol, tailored to my situation, which ultimately made all the difference. Beyond his technical expertise, his calm and clear communication kept me grounded throughout the process. I am so grateful for his persistence and high level of care!

Why choose FertUlity?

Because every fertility journey deserves the right support. At FertUlity, we provide science-based fertility care with a human approach. We support every path, from fertility assessment and preservation to modern assisted reproduction.

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