Can I do IUI Premium - AI at home?

Reunite1133

Hi- we are previous customers of CCB and used ICI Premium sperm doing AI at home. We were successful and now want to try AI again at home, however our previous donor only has IUI premium vials available? Can we purchase these and do at home, or does our doctor need to do it?
Thanks!

cryo-admin

Hi Re -

The difference between ICI and IUI vials is that the ICI vials contain seminal fluid which helps the sperm travel to the uterus during a vaginal insemination (similar to natural intercourse).

The IUI vials are washed which means that the seminal fluid is removed and it's a concentrated sample of motile sperm. While it's possible to use an IUI vial for a vaginal insemination, it's lacking the seminal fluid to help the sperm travel to the uterus. Also, the volume of an IUI vial is about half that of an ICI vial, so it may be more difficult to handle the small amount of liquid.

If you are contemplating doing an IUI instead of a vaginal insemination, please note that it involves using a thin catheter to place the sperm directly into the uterus. This type of insemination should be done with a medical professional in a sterile environment to reduce the risk of an infection.

We want you to have the best possible chance at a successful pregnancy which is why we recommend using an ICI vial if you plan on doing vaginal insemination at home.

Regards,

Nicole
CCB