IUI involves the injection of a sample of prepared sperm from the husband or partner (IUI-H) into the woman’s uterine cavity around the time of ovulation. 

IUI is recommended only if the woman has healthy fallopian tubes, preferably confirmed laparoscopically, and if the man’s semen analysis is normal. It may be useful for women who have cervical mucus hostility and in some cases of unexplained infertility. 

The chance of success with IUI is enhanced if insemination is combined with ovulation induction using small doses of fertility drugs. These are taken by the woman, and the development of the follicles on the ovary is monitored with ultrasound. The insemination is timed to take place 36-40 hours after administration of another hormone injection which triggers ovulation.