Infertility

Infertility InfoCenter

Learn more about infertility and infertility treatment!

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July 31, 2010 Infertility info and access to doctors who specialize in infertility!

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Infertility InfoCenter is an Internet resource that offers you an opportunity to research infertility. Infertility InfoCenter does not offer medical advice or referrals.

Artificial Insemination



Every year, millions of couples cope with infertility problems. Fortunately, there are a number of different options that allow these couples to conceive successfully. Artificial insemination is one fertility treatment often used to combat low sperm count and poor sperm motility. This technique has been in use since the early 1900s, but today’s methods are vastly superior.

Artificial Insemination Basics


What exactly is artificial insemination? In this procedure, sperm is placed on either a woman’s cervix or uterus. When a couple is attempting to conceive using artificial insemination, the woman’s menstrual cycle will be closely tracked. Sperm is carefully "washed" in a laboratory before it is implanted in order to remove any chemicals or other contagions that might affect the conception process.

Effectiveness of Artificial Insemination


Success rates can vary, but most women have a five to 20 percent chance of conceiving during each menstrual cycle. When the artificial insemination process is combined with the use of fertility drugs, success rates are approximately 20 percent for each cycle.

Advantages and Disadvantages


Since artificial insemination is generally less invasive than other assisted reproductive techniques, this is a great choice for couple with male infertility problems. Additionally, this procedure is far less expensive that other methods such as in vitro fertilization. In the United States, the procedure typically costs between $300 and $700 for every treatment cycle. However, associated costs including monitoring, ultrasounds and fertility drugs push the price up to approximately $2,000 to $4,500. When combined with fertility drugs, artificial insemination provides a steady success rate for couples coping with infertility.

However, there are also disadvantages that all couples should consider before choosing artificial insemination. Since timing is such an essential part of the process, sperm must be produced during critical times. Women must also carefully monitor their menstrual cycle in order to be prepared to undergo the procedure during their most fertile period.