What To Expect After An IUI Procedure

Fertility treatments aim to help you start or expand your family and you can choose from many different types. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is one such fertility treatment for couples, single women and same-sex couples. 

However, you might wonder what happens once the procedure is completed. If so, you can discover all you need here with IVF Matters. This blog post will cover what happens during IUI, what to expect after an IUI procedure and how long implantation takes. 

What happens during IUI?

IUI is a fertility treatment where sperm is collected and inserted directly into the uterus at ovulation. The procedure can increase the chance of pregnancy in couples struggling with infertility.

The process of IUI usually begins with a consultation with a fertility specialist. The specialist will evaluate the individual’s medical history and perform a physical examination. They may also recommend further testing to determine the cause of infertility. Once the specialist determines that IUI is the best option, they will schedule the procedure.

The male partner must provide a semen sample, but you can opt to use donor sperm. This sperm is then ‘washed’ and filtered to produce a concentrated sample of healthy, high-quality sperm.

Sometimes, our fertility specialists will use a hormonal injection to stimulate the ovaries and mature the eggs. Regular ultrasounds are used to track this development, and once the follicles are mature, the specialist will determine the optimal time in the cycle for the IUI procedure. They will then place the sperm sample into the uterus using a catheter inserted through the cervix. 

The procedure is relatively painless and does not require anaesthesia, although it can feel slightly uncomfortable for some women. However, it is performed quickly so it will be finished before you know it.

What to expect after IUI

Recovery time after an IUI procedure is minimal — most people can resume normal activities the same day.

The wait for pregnancy results can be emotionally challenging. It’s vital to remember that it doesn’t always achieve pregnancy at the first attempt, and it may take several cycles of IUI to be successful. Coping strategies such as exercise, relaxation techniques and support from loved ones can help during this time.

In the days after the IUI procedure, you must follow any instructions from your fertility specialist. This may include taking medication or monitoring for signs of pregnancy. In addition, it’s important to report any unusual symptoms or concerns to your doctor immediately.

Complications of IUI

After the IUI procedure, it’s normal to experience some mild cramping and spotting. These side effects usually subside within a few days. However, if cramping persists or is severe, you should consult a doctor.

What happens after IUI day by day?

Here’s what you can expect in the days and weeks following the procedure:

Day 1–7

Immediately after the procedure and in the following days, you may experience mild cramping and spotting. These are common symptoms that occur after IUI, but if they don’t go away, you need to seek medical attention. 

As you approach the implantation window, you may start to experience stomach discomfort, breast tenderness and other symptoms you usually experience before your period.

Day 8–13

Implantation happens during this time, so you may experience early pregnancy symptoms such as cramping, spotting and breast tenderness. However, other factors can cause these symptoms and do not necessarily indicate pregnancy.

This uncertainty is why you must wait for the recommended two weeks to take a pregnancy test, as your symptoms are not enough to go by alone. 

Week 2

Around two weeks after the IUI procedure, you’ll undergo a pregnancy test. You can do this at home with an over-the-counter test, order an Early Pregnancy Test with Clinical Review from IVF Matters, or arrange a blood test at your doctors.

If the test is positive, we’ll schedule you for a follow-up appointment to monitor the pregnancy. If the test is negative, you may want to consider another cycle of IUI or alternative treatment.

Week 3

If the pregnancy test is positive, you might experience early pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and breast tenderness. You’ll receive recommended healthcare tips to help you stay healthy and increase your chances of a successful pregnancy. 

Week 4

Four weeks after the IUI procedure, you can have an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy. IVF Matters offer our patients the opportunity to schedule a pregnancy viability ultrasound at one of over 80+ ultrasound centres throughout the UK. If the results are positive, your fertility consultant will continue to monitor you.

If the ultrasound does not confirm the pregnancy, you might want to consider another cycle of IUI or a different treatment, like in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

It’s worth noting that your timeline could look slightly different depending on factors such as ovulation timing and implantation. 

How long does implantation take after IUI?

Implantation is the process of a fertilised egg attaching itself to the lining of your uterus. After an IUI procedure, implantation typically occurs within 5-6 days. However, this timeline can vary based on factors such as ovulation timing, and sperm and egg quality.

During the implantation, the fertilised egg will travel down the fallopian tube and into the uterus. Once it reaches the uterus, the egg will burrow into the uterus lining, which has been thickened in preparation for implantation. Once the egg is securely implanted in the uterus, it will release hormones that will signal the body to support the pregnancy.

Some factors that can affect the timing of implantation after an IUI procedure include:

• Sperm and egg quality
• Ovulation timing
• Fertility medications 
• Stress levels 
• Overall health

Signs of implantation after IUI

When implantation occurs, you can experience physical and emotional symptoms. These symptoms can include: 

• Mild cramping or twinges in the lower abdomen
• Spotting or light bleeding
• Breast tenderness or soreness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue or exhaustion
• Headaches
• Increased appetite or food cravings
• Mood changes or mood swings
• Anxiety or stress
• Irritability
• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping

It can be challenging to tell the difference between implantation symptoms, menstrual cycle symptoms and the IUI procedure’s side effects. Some IUI side effects can include cramping, bloating, spotting or light bleeding. 

However, these outcomes usually subside within a day or two after the procedure. On the other hand, implantation symptoms can last a few days to a week, and occur around six to ten days after IUI. 

What to do after IUI to increase your chances of pregnancy

After undergoing IUI treatment, there are several things you can do to increase your chances of success. However, following the aftercare advice doesn’t guarantee a pregnancy. 

Resting is important after IUI, as your body needs time to recover. Avoid any rigorous exercise or heavy lifting for at least 24 hours. 

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can help to improve your conception chances. Include lots of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats in your diet. Combine this with drinking plenty of water to ensure you’re hydrated — try not to drink anything sugary or caffeinated. 

Try to reduce stress, as it can negatively affect your chances of conceiving. For example, you could practise some relaxation techniques like meditation to help keep you calm. 

Taking prenatal vitamins is often recommended, as they can help create the healthiest environment possible for an embryo to develop. Certain supplements like folic acid, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids may help improve fertility. Speak to your consultant before taking any supplements.

Things to avoid after IUI

After an IUI procedure, you must take good care of your health to increase your chances of implantation.  

Some things to avoid after IUI are: 

• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol
• Strenuous exercise
• Foods high in saturated fats 
• Stress 

If IUI is unsuccessful, the next step may be to repeat the procedure or try a different fertility treatment, such as IVF, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), or donor insemination. You may wish to explore other options such as adoption or surrogacy. Again, your fertility consultant can help you determine the best course of action based on your circumstances.

IUI can be a helpful fertility treatment for many wanting to become parents. However, knowing what to expect after the procedure can help you to plan and ensure that you’re doing the best you can for your body to support implantation and achieve a successful pregnancy.

If you’re considering IUI treatment or are having issues conceiving, book a free advisory call with our fertility experts at IVF Matters.