There are many fertility treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) and Pregnyl injection available for a couple having challenges with conception. Dealing with infertility isn’t an easy task and a couple should support each other to lessen the burden. If the situation becomes unbearable, the couple may seek professional help; for example, look for a counselor to offer guidance in the trying period. But you know what; others have made it, why not you?
What is Intrauterine Insemination?
IUI is a simple procedure in which the fertility specialist place sperm in your uterus; in short, it shortens the trip for the sperm to the fallopian tubes for easier fertilization in the presence of a female egg. The procedure is helpful to both men and women. IUI is the preferred treatment under the following conditions:
- Donor sperm
- Unexplained infertility
- Low sperm count
- Poor sperm motility
- Ejaculation dysfunction and challenges with timing
- Hostile cervical mucus
- Endometriosis in women
The aim of intrauterine insemination is to ensure only good sperm get to the fallopian tubes, as a result, increase the chance of becoming pregnant. The procedure has been used for a long time and perfected over the years. There are two ways to successfully use IUI during the fertile period of a woman namely:
- Natural cycle timing
- Injection Pregnyl timing
Why is Timing Crucial?
If undergoing IUI treatment, timing is of the essence. Bear in mind the procedure involves implanting the sperm directly into the female’s womb to raise chances of conception. It’s paramount for IUI to be carried out during a woman fertile window when the eggs are present. For a pregnancy to occur, a quality sperm and egg must be present.
In the natural cycle timing, a woman doesn’t have challenges with ovulation. You need to track your monthly period and pinpoint when ovulation takes place to help the doctor schedule for the procedure. If a female is uncertain when she ovulates, the doctor may recommend purchasing an ovulation test kit and record basal body temperature. Once an ovulation predictor kit tests positive, the doctor will plan for IUI right away.
Pregnyl Injection
The second option for IUI is through Pregnyl. The injection is ideal for women having difficulties with natural ovulation and contains chorionic gonadotropin as the active substance. This medication has actions that are almost similar to those of LH (luteinizing hormone); LH is produced by the pituitary gland.
The doctor performs blood test and ultrasound to check the growth and development of the follicles and the eggs. It the physician ascertains the eggs are mature; This medication should be given to trigger ovulation. You may get the shot at the doctor’s office or in the comfort of your house. If you are willing to administer the injection at home or need a refresher course, you will go through Pregnyl injection instructions together with a nurse to train you or serve as a reminder of how to carry out the injection.
On the other hand, your partner (the man), should provide a sample of his semen. The fertility specialist will recommend avoiding having sexual intercourse for two to five days before intrauterine insemination is carried out to boost sperm count. In case you live close to the fertility center, the man will collect his semen at home. However, he can do it at the hospital in a private room if happens to leave far from the clinic. The sperm is then washed in the laboratory within an hour of ejaculation; that’s why it’s advantageous living near the clinic since it is convenient collecting the semen in the comfort of your house. In the laboratory, chemicals are removed from the semen which may lead to discomfort for the female, consequently increasing chances of conception. Laboratory technician liquefies the sperm for around 30 minutes at room temperature then adds a chemical to get the most active sperm. The technician uses a centrifuge to assemble or collect the best sperm.
When to Expect Ovulation
Ovulation after Pregnyl will occur between 24 to 48 hours. IUI will be scheduled around this time; although some medics believe it should be carried out within 24 hours after the injection, whereas others believe it should be done between 40 to 48 hours after the shot. Whichever the case, IUI has proved to work within this period. How is IUI carried out once the Pregnyl has been given? It is an easy process and takes a few minutes. The fertility expert places the best sperm separated in a catheter (a thin tube) and inserts it in the vaginal, then the cervix and finally into the uterus.
During the procedure, a woman may experience cramping and light bleeding later. After the process, she will need to lie down for 15 to 45 minutes to allow the sperm do its work. Before the procedure of IUI and the Prenyl injection is given, the doctor may put you on other fertility drugs like Clomiphene Citrate and Letrozole to stimulate the release of multiple eggs. The success rate for IUI and Pregnyl may vary from woman to woman; the following may lower the success rate:
- Age of the women particularly
- Poor egg and sperm
- Severe endometriosis
- Damaged fallopian tubes due to a persistent infection
- Blocked fallopian tubes
From the above discussion, it’s clear the relationship between this medication and ovulation; the drug is used to trigger the release of a mature egg (ovulation) to be fertilized.
Side Effects
Any drug has a dark side since it results in unwanted effects during its use. The drug side effects affect individuals differently; what is termed as common may be severe to you. If you are fortunate, you may not experience the side effects. Nonetheless, have the knowledge of what to expect and refer to the physician if the undesirable effects persist. The good thing is that the common side effects are mild and clears on their own, whereas the severe side effects are serious and may need doctor’s intervention.
Unwanted effects
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Mood changes
- Oedema
- Reactions on the injection site
- Skin rashes
- Enlargement of breast
- Ovarian hyperstimulation
- Thromboembolism
- Allergic reaction
Pregnyl injection during pregnancy is highly discouraged if you suspect you are pregnant, even before the injection, inform the physician with immediate effect. For further inquiries on the negative effects associated with the drug, refer to the medical care provider.
In Conclusion
Pregnyl injection and IUI may not work for everyone; the combination may be used for three to six months prior the doctor puts you on another treatment like in vitro fertilization with the donor eggs or sperms.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and must not be considered as medical advice. YouDrugstore does not endorse or approve the opinions or views expressed by any contributing author in our community articles. Always consult your doctor for medical advice.