Insemination (IUI) – Gentle fertility treatment in Zurich

Insemination (IUI, intrauterine insemination) is a proven and gentle treatment for an unfulfilled wish to have children. It is particularly suitable for slightly reduced sperm quality, unexplained infertility, and for women with open fallopian tubes.

At our fertility clinic in Zurich, we perform inseminations tailored individually to the natural cycle or after mild hormonal stimulation.

When is insemination useful?

Insemination is often recommended for:

• slightly reduced sperm count or motility
• unexplained cause of infertility
• regular or hormonally induced ovulation
• at least one open fallopian tube

Before treatment, we check the most important prerequisites so we can assess the chances of success as accurately as possible.

Examination of the fallopian tubes

For insemination to be successful, at least one fallopian tube should be open. We check this with hysterosalpingo contrast sonography (HyCoSy).

After menstruation, a fine balloon catheter is inserted into the uterus. A special ultrasound contrast agent is then introduced, and its flow through the fallopian tubes can be seen directly on ultrasound. The examination is performed on an outpatient basis and usually takes only a few minutes.

How insemination (IUI) works

During insemination, the partner’s sperm is first specially prepared in the laboratory. The most motile sperm are then introduced directly into the uterus using a very thin, soft catheter.

The procedure:

• takes only a few minutes
• is performed at the time of ovulation
• is usually painless
• does not require anaesthesia

After treatment, you can return to your normal daily routine immediately.

Chances of success

Depending on age, the cause of the wish to have children and sperm quality, the pregnancy rate is up to around 15% per treatment cycle. The best chances of success are for women under 40 and with careful selection of suitable patients.

Costs and health insurance (Switzerland)

For women under 40, many Swiss health insurers generally cover up to three inseminations, provided the medical requirements are met.

Some health insurers also contribute to the costs for women over 40 if the individual chances of success are favourable. We will be happy to clarify your personal coverage directly with your health insurer before treatment begins.