IUI Success Tips
Intrauterine insemination (IUI), commonly known as artificial insemination, is one of the least complex and most affordable fertility treatments. Artificial insemination allows fertility doctors to inject sperm directly into the uterus, to give patients a higher chance of becoming pregnant. IUI can address a number of male and female fertility issues.
As with any other fertility treatment, there is no way to guarantee the success of IUI treatment. However, at Heartland Center for Reproductive Medicine, PC, we have an impressive record of successful fertility treatments. Our expertise, along with some helpful IUI success tips can help our Omaha, NE patients get the best results from their treatment.
Practice Healthy Habits
When it comes to the success of IUI treatment, there is a lot that is out of the patient’s control. However, by practicing healthy habits, our Omaha patients can do their part to promote treatment success. There are several steps that patients can take to ensure their body is in good shape and ready to support a pregnancy:
- Eat a nutrient rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and full-fat dairy products
- Stay well-hydrated
- Begin taking a prenatal vitamin
- Avoid sedentary behavior
Reduce Stress
It is completely natural for people to deal with extra stress and anxiety when they are undergoing fertility treatment, especially after struggling with infertility. Unfortunately, heightened stress can threaten the success of IUI treatment. We urge patients to find hobbies or practices that they find relaxing and practice them daily. Possible stress-relievers include:
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Walking
- Reading
- Knitting
- Talking with a friend
- Joining a support group
Avoid Strenuous Exercise
Physical activity is part of a healthy lifestyle, which can promote the success of IUI treatment. While we don’t want patients to be too sedentary before or after IUI treatment, they also should avoid strenuous exercise immediately leading up to and following their IUI procedure. High impact exercises like running, aerobics, or heavy lifting may cause uterine contractions that could interfere with embryo implantation. To promote IUI success, our Omaha patients should stick to low impact exercises like yoga, walking, or swimming in the days following treatment.
Consider the Use of an Expectorant
In preparation of IUI treatment, we often prescribe our patients fertility medication that stimulates the ovaries and encourages the production of multiple mature eggs. Some of these medications, such as Clomid, can lead to excess mucus in the uterus. If mucus buildup is substantial, it can create a hostile environment that makes it more difficult for sperm to survive and fertilize an egg. An over-the-counter medication that contains an expectorant can help thin the mucus in the cervix. As with any other medication, patients should discuss the use of an expectorant with their doctor before taking it.
Contact Us
At Heartland Center for Reproductive Medicine, PC we offer a wide range of fertility services, as well as support and tips to promote the success of fertility treatment for our patients. If you would like to find out how our doctors can help you on your journey to parenthood, send us a message at your earliest convenience, or call (402) 717-4200.