How does Intravaginal Insemination (IVI) work?
How Intravaginal Insemination Works:
Preparation: The individual or couple obtains sperm from a donor. This can be done using sperm from a known donor or frozen sperm from a sperm bank.
Known Donor: For those using a known donor, legal agreements are recommended to clarify parental rights. This can be done with fresh or frozen sperm.
Appropriate STD testing recommended
Sperm Bank: Frozen sperm can be purchased from a licensed sperm bank, where it’s screened and stored safely.
Timing: Timing the insemination is crucial. IVI should ideally be done close to ovulation to increase the chances of conception. Many people track ovulation using:
Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs) to detect the LH surge,
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) charting,
Cervical Mucus Observation to assess fertile signs.
Procedure:
The person inseminating fills a syringe (usually without a needle) with the sperm sample. There are also companies like Mosie for this
The syringe is then gently inserted into the vagina, and the sperm is placed near the cervix. Lying down with hips elevated for 15-20 minutes after insemination can help maximize the sperm's chance of reaching the cervix and moving up through the reproductive tract.
Advantages of Intravaginal Insemination:
Low Cost: IVI is significantly less expensive than clinical methods like IUI or IVF, especially if using a known donor.
Non-Invasive and Private: It can be done in the comfort and privacy of one’s home, which can reduce stress and provide a sense of control over the process.
Accessible: It requires minimal equipment and no medical intervention, making it an accessible option.
Considerations and Limitations:
Success Rates: While IVI can be effective, it generally has lower success rates compared to intrauterine insemination (IUI) performed in a clinical setting. The vaginal environment is less favorable for sperm survival than the uterus, where IUI places sperm directly. Success depends on timing, sperm quality, and overall fertility health.
Sperm Quality: Fresh sperm generally has a better chance of surviving in the vaginal environment than thawed frozen sperm, which may have reduced motility.
Legal and Emotional Considerations:
Legal Agreements: For those using a known donor, it’s advisable to have a legal agreement to clarify parental rights and responsibilities. Additionally, it establishes that the donor is defined as a donor legally; therefore, their interest is also protected.
Emotional Support: Having a support system, whether through counseling, support groups, or loved ones, can be helpful, especially if it takes multiple attempts to conceive.
Success Rates and Alternatives:
Success rates for IVI can vary but are generally lower than IUI, with an estimated 10-20% chance per cycle, depending on timing and sperm quality. If IVI isn’t successful after several attempts, some may choose to explore clinical options like IUI or IVF.
