Artificial insemination is the oldest assisted reproduction technique in history. It consists of depositing, through a catheter, male gametes (semen) into a woman’s uterus.
It is believed that this technique may have been used since Egyptian times, although it is considered that the first official human insemination took place in 1790.
International guidelines advise this type of treatment in women under 39 years of age with permeable fallopian tubes and short term sterility. In addition, it should always be performed when the semen is practically normal or when it is necessary to resort to sperm donation (single woman, azoospermia, female homosexual couple, genetic disease of the man, among others).
However, this treatment may not be successful for all patients. Failure to have a son or daughter is the consequence, but not the cause of infertility. There are many different causes of infertility and each involves a specific diagnostic and therapeutic approach.
Artificial insemination process
The artificial insemination process can be carried out during a “natural cycle” or by “gentle” ovarian stimulation. In the first case, there would be only one follicle/egg; while in the second case there would be more, usually no more than two or three follicles/eggs.
This assisted reproduction process begins on the 2nd or 3rd day of the menstrual cycle and lasts approximately ten days. During these days, the development of the follicles and endometrium is assessed by gynecological ultrasound. In addition, hormonal studies are sometimes performed.
Once the follicle is mature, ovulation is induced and that same day the artificial insemination is performed, which can be done with or without the help of the ultrasound. Once this process is completed, the patient must rest for about 10 to 15 minutes and then she can go home. This assisted reproduction technique does not require anesthesia. During and after the cycle, the patient can continue with her normal daily activities.
Sperm donor profile
The donor’s profile is studied both from a medical and psychological point of view. It is necessary to evaluate the quantity and quality of the patient’s sperm. For this reason, a series of analyses established by current legislation are performed, such as blood group, Rh factor, HIV, HBV, Lue or Chlamydia, among others. In addition, in some assisted reproduction centers, such as FIV Valencia, genetic studies such as karyotype and cystic fibrosis are performed. Once the donor is suitable for donation, the donation will be made according to the phenotypic (physical), blood group and Rh factor characteristics of the recipient.