Intracervical Insemination (ICI)
Intracervical inseminations are not done as frequently now as they once were. Now that the technology and technique has been perfected for the intrauterine insemination (IUI), it is rare to see the use of the intracervical insemination. However, there are a few reasons for why it is still done today.
Intracervical insemination (ICI) has about a 2 percent conception rate for couples with fertility problems. This low rate leads most practitioners to do the slightly more invasive intrauterine inseminations (IUI).
The intracervical insemination is frequently done when the only problem is with sperm delivery — for example, if you were using donor sperm because your husband had a vasectomy — and you have no known fertility problems of your own.
The procedure is done after you have detected the LH surge during your cycle. You then contact the office and schedule the time for your insemination. You may also need to schedule a time for the semen sample delivery if you are not using donor sperm.
You will be asked to lie on your back on an exam table while a doctor or nurse practitioner places the syringe with washed sperm near or just inside the cervix for dispersal. Sometimes a device much like that of a cervical cap or diaphragm is used to hold the semen sample next to the cervix. You will be asked to lay there for a few minutes. If a cap was used it may stay in place for the remainder of the day depending on your clinic's protocol.
