One of the most popular Assisted Reproduction techniques is artificial insemination. Its objective is to bring the sperm closer to the egg to make fertilization more likely. It is performed by inseminating the sperm directly into the uterus, without the need to remove the egg from the woman, as is the case with in vitro insemination.
What is the objective of artificial insemination?
Artificial insemination aims to increase the chances of fertilization of the egg by introducing the sperm directly into the uterus. In this way, the route that the sperm have to take to reach the egg is shortened, increasing the possibility that they arrive with more vigor and, therefore, that they can fertilize the egg.
When is artificial insemination performed?
In order to maximize the chances of fertilization, artificial insemination is performed during the woman’s fertile days. In addition, a previous selection of the most energetic spermatozoa is made, among other actions, such as the previous administration to the woman of some medication containing a low amount of hormones, which stimulates her to generate eggs.
Once the fertile days have been calculated and the rest of the previous procedures have been carried out, the artificial insemination is performed, introducing the chosen spermatozoa with a cannula. The procedure is performed in the least invasive and comfortable way possible, without the use of anesthesia.
Types of artificial insemination
The material used in artificial insemination can be from the woman’s own partner, which is called conjugal or homologous artificial insemination, or it can be from an anonymous donor, that is to say, a donor or heterologous artificial insemination.
On the other hand, depending on where the introduction of the sperm takes place, it may be:
- Intratubal artificial insemination, when it is done in the fallopian tubes.
- Intracervical artificial insemination, when it occurs in the uterine cervix.
- Intrauterine artificial insemination, when it is performed directly in the uterus. It is the most common procedure.
Percentage of success of artificial insemination
The result of artificial insemination will be positive in no more than 30%. However, when the process is repeated in what is called four insemination cycles, the percentage will increase. If after the fourth attempt no symptoms of pregnancy are seen, specialists will advise other assisted reproductive techniques.