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Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that places prepared sperm directly into the uterus at the right time in your cycle—so sperm is closer to the egg when ovulation occurs. At Hanabusa, IUI is never “one-size-fits-all.” We focus on precise timing, thoughtful medication use when appropriate, and clear next steps—so you feel supported and confident throughout your care.

We personalize your cycle strategy to reduce guesswork and protect your next step if IUI isn’t the right long-term solution.
Ovulation tracking + trigger planning (when appropriate) to optimize insemination timing

Early in your cycle, you may have an ultrasound and sometimes bloodwork to confirm your ovaries are ready and to set a plan for monitoring and timing. If you are using medications, we tailor the dose to your needs and prioritize safety.
We track follicle growth with ultrasound and sometimes hormone testing. Follicles are fluid filled structures in the ovary that contain eggs. The goal in most IUI cycles is to mature one egg, sometimes two, depending on your situation.
Some cycles use an hCG trigger shot to precisely time ovulation. This can help align the insemination with the most fertile window.
On the day of IUI, sperm is prepared in the lab using a process often called washing. This concentrates healthy motile sperm and removes components that can cause uterine irritation.
A thin catheter is used to place the prepared sperm into the uterus. The procedure is brief. Many people describe it as similar to a Pap smear. Some feel mild cramping or pressure, and most return to normal activities the same day.
You continue with your normal routine unless we give you specific instructions. A pregnancy test is typically done about two weeks after the insemination. Some patients may use progesterone support depending on the cycle plan.

You’re early in your fertility journey and want a lower-intervention option
You have ovulation challenges (or irregular timing) that can be supported
You’re using donor sperm (single parent by choice or LGBTQ+ family building)
You have mild male factor or cervical factor concerns (case dependent)
You want a guided step before IVF (based on your evaluation)
You have significant tubal blockage or severe endometriosis (case dependent)
Your ovarian reserve is very low and timing is critical (we’ll advise clearly)
You’ve had multiple unsuccessful IUIs and need a new strategy
Your evaluation suggests IVF would be more effective based on age/diagnosis

Natural vs. medicated cycle
Monitoring frequency (ultrasounds + labs)
Trigger shot usage
Sperm source (partner vs. donor) + sperm processing needs
Number of cycles planned
Often included: IUI procedure, sperm wash/processing
Often separate: medications, labs, ultrasounds, donor sperm costs, additional testing

IUI success rates vary widely. The most important factor is matching the right treatment to the right patient at the right time.
Age
Ovarian reserve and ovulation quality
Diagnosis (unexplained, ovulatory dysfunction, mild male factor, etc.)
Tubal patency (open tubes)
Sperm parameters and preparation
Number of follicles (when medicated) and safety limits

Cycle starts with baseline check (if needed)
Monitoring visits occur around mid-cycle
IUI is a quick, in-office procedure (typically minutes)
Pregnancy test timing is usually ~2 weeks after ovulation/IUI (clinic-specific)
We handle: monitoring plan, timing guidance, lab prep, procedure, next-step recommendations
You do: medications (if prescribed), attend monitoring visits, follow timing instructions, communicate symptoms/questions
Most people feel mild pressure or cramping that lasts a short time. It is usually manageable without anesthesia, and you can return to normal activities the same day.
With IUI, fertilization happens inside your body. With IVF, eggs are retrieved and fertilized in the lab, then an embryo is transferred. IVF is more intensive but often has higher success per cycle, especially for certain diagnoses or age groups.
Not always. Natural cycle IUI can work well for some people. Others benefit from ovulation induction using oral medications such as letrozole or clomiphene citrate. We choose the approach based on your ovulation pattern, your diagnosis, and safety considerations.
Yes, particularly with medicated cycles that stimulate more than one follicle. We monitor carefully and tailor medication with the goal of balancing success with safety.
It depends on your age, diagnosis, and response to treatment. Many patients consider three to four IUIs, but if your chances are low or time matters, we may recommend moving to IVF sooner to be more efficient.
Often, yes. IUI is commonly used with donor sperm and can be a supportive, less invasive path to pregnancy for many individuals and couples, including LGBTQ plus families and single parents by choice.
You deserve a plan that respects your body, your timeline, your culture, and your finances. If you would like to explore IUI in San Diego and whether it fits your next best step, Book a Consult.
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You’re a fit for Traditional Fertility Care if any of these statements resonate with you:
You’re just getting started
You want clear first steps
You’ve explored clinics, but still feel at the beginning
You need fertility testing
Your labs look reassuring
Your situation feels straightforward
You have fewer complicating factors
You’re considering IUI
You’re new to IVF
You’re planning an FET
You’re considering PGT
If anything, complex becomes evident, we smoothly upgrade your pathway.
You’re a fit for Complex Care if any of these statements resonate with you:
Low AMH/AFC or DOR concerns
You have Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR)
You have POI or high FSH concerns
You’re considering Ovarian Rejuvenation (PRP)
Age 40+ or time feels limited
Prior IVF didn’t respond as hoped
Low egg numbers / embryo growth issues
Unsuccessful embryo transfers
Recurrent pregnancy loss (2+ losses)
Male factor needs ICSI or TESE
You’ve been told your case is complex
If your case is complex from the start, we build the right strategy from day one.