Options for Infertility – IUI

Dealing with infertility is hard enough. Then there’s the task of figuring out which method to choose to have children. Do you pursue Invitro fertilization (IVF) or go straight to adoption? How much money do you spend pursuing these avenues? It can be difficult when it all costs so much time, emotions, and finances. 

Michael and I still struggle with this. To be honest, we don’t feel any direction from the Lord right now. So, we continue to wait. We tried to pursue IUI or IVF but we couldn’t. Therefore, it’ll either be getting a second opinion or trying a form of adoption for us, unless God provides a miracle. 

Since this is such a struggle for us, I know there are others out there who are stuck in the same dilemma. Because of this, I’ve decided to start a monthly post with different fertility options you can try. Some months will be written by me. Other months will be written by couples who’ve found an answer for their family. 

It is my prayer that through these stories, the Lord will give you peace with the option that’s right for you.

Today, I want to start with Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). This is typically the first option infertility specialists try if there are viable sperm and eggs. The sperm count may be low or slow which makes it harder to reach the egg on its own.

The doctor takes sperm from a sample and implants it near the opening of the fallopian tube. This gives the weak sperm a fighting chance.  

Other reasons a doctor may offer IUI could be if the woman has cervical scarring, mucus, or similar issues. 

It is the easiest and best-case scenario option. It is also one of the cheapest routes to try. There is government funding for this procedure. But, it is only for a certain amount throughout the year. I believe the procedure is free except for the sample processing fee if you receive government funding. However, if you miss the opportunity, this procedure will be an extra $725:

“$1,225 ($725 for IUI cost that would otherwise be covered by OFP and $500 sample processing fee which applies regardless of funding)” http://mountsinaifertility.com/2018/09/update-on-iui-funding-for-2018/

Though this all sounds fairly easy, I advise you to take it with a grain of salt. This works for some, but it can be hard since it’s leaving it up to your own sperm and egg to do the work. 

It’s probably best to treat it as another test rather than putting all hope into it. It’s not something that is typically successful right off the bat. Take it month by month as normal as possible. I know that a month can feel like a year when you’re in the thick of it all though.  

I’ve been through all the testing and understand the raw emotions of the constant tests and waiting game. Though I haven’t had an IUI, I’ve heard from many that it’s the first place doctors start. It’s the least invasive, cheapest,  and easiest procedure to do. 

It would be amazing if that’s all you needed. I pray it is! If not, know that there are lots of other options to pursue. Be patient. Keep in prayer and trust the Lord that He will work things out. I know that’s easy to say and hard to live out. 

If you’ve had a successful IUI story, please email me. I’d appreciate the opportunity to be able to share it with our community. It can be anonymous if you’d prefer.