Myths & Misconceptions About IUI Debunked by Dr. Sarita Sukhija

Planning a child is one of the most critical steps in the life of a couple. Hurdles in the way of pregnancy not only puts the planning but also the mental health at stake. In order to prevent the stress and anxiety that follows after repeated failure to conceive, families tend to turn their heads towards medical help. It provides a variety of options through which couples can conceive a child. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is the most common of all the other options but there are certain misconceptions related to this process which needs to be debunked. Given her extensive experience in treatment of numerous patients with infertility issues and recurrent pregnancy losses, Dr. Sarita Sukhija, Founder Myra IVF Centre clears out these myths.

As an expert, Dr. Sarita Sukhija explains the IUI process as “a fertility procedure that helps increase the chances of pregnancy by placing washed and concentrated sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. The process begins with monitoring the woman’s ovulation cycle, sometimes with the help of mild medications to stimulate egg release. When ovulation is about to occur, a prepared sperm sample is introduced into the uterus using a thin catheter. The procedure is quick, usually painless, and does not require anesthesia. After the insemination, the patient can resume normal activities and take a pregnancy test about two weeks later. IUI is often recommended for couples with unexplained infertility, mild male factor issues, or minor ovulation problems.”

Moving ahead with the myths and reality, here’s the list”

Myth 1: IUI is only for couples who can’t conceive naturally.
Many people think IUI is meant only for couples who are completely infertile, but that’s not true. IUI is often the first step for couples who’ve been trying for a while without success. It can help in cases of mild male infertility, irregular ovulation, or even unexplained fertility issues. Sometimes, it’s simply used to improve timing and increase the chances of conception.

Myth 2: The IUI procedure is painful or complicated.
IUI is a very simple and quick process. It usually takes just a few minutes and doesn’t require anesthesia. Most women say it feels similar to a routine check-up — slightly uncomfortable at most. Once it’s done, you can go about your day as usual.

Myth 3: IUI always guarantees pregnancy.
While IUI can increase the chances of getting pregnant, it doesn’t guarantee success every time. Results depend on factors like age, egg and sperm quality, and overall health. Some couples may need more than one cycle to achieve pregnancy, and that’s completely normal.

Myth 4: IUI often leads to twins or triplets.
This is a common concern, but the chances of multiple pregnancies with IUI are quite low. They increase slightly only if fertility medications are used, and even then, doctors carefully monitor follicle growth to keep risks under control. In most cases, IUI results in a single healthy pregnancy.

Myth 5: IUI is a treatment just for women.
IUI supports both partners. It helps when sperm motility or count is slightly low, and it can also assist when a woman has ovulation or cervical issues. The goal is to bring sperm and egg closer together at the right time, improving the chance of fertilization.

Myth 6: You need complete bed rest after IUI.
There’s no need to lie in bed or restrict movement after the procedure. You can return to your normal activities right away. Gentle self-care, a balanced diet, and avoiding stress are enough — bed rest doesn’t improve the success rate.

Myth 7: IUI and IVF are the same.
Though both are fertility treatments, they’re quite different. In IUI, sperm is placed directly into the uterus to allow natural fertilization. In IVF, eggs are retrieved and fertilized in a lab before being placed back in the uterus. IUI is less invasive, more affordable, and often the first step before considering IVF.

Hence, couples before trusting these so called myths needs to consult an expert like Dr. Sarita Sukhija who can guide them into better treatment. Also, the professional help needs to have a valuable experience which can make a difference. Pregnancy and parenthood are true blessings into one’s life and get things done correctly, misconceptions are the last thing one would want to trust.