Preparing for IUI

If you have chosen to try IUI or Intrauterine Insemination so that you can get pregnant you want to make sure you have the very best chance at success. Many women want to know what they should do to prepare themselves for this procedure. Keep in mind that each case is different because each woman’s body reacts differently, To be sure you prepare the right way you should discuss it with your fertility doctor. Some couples choose to try IUI before trying to use any infertility drugs. If you go through with the IUI and you’re not successful in getting pregnant your doctor might suggest you use ovulation-inducing medications like Clomid. 

Preparing for the IUI in combination with your natural cycle requires keeping track of your ovulation. Your doctor might suggest using transvaginal ultrasound exams that will let him view your ovaries and see the lining of your uterus. It is also possible to take urine ovulation predictor tests at home. Just before ovulation, your body goes through a surge of Luteinizing Hormoor LH.

This is the hormone that shows up when you take the ovulation predictor test. After the test shows positive result ovulation takes place between 18 and 24 hours. When you see your test shows a surge in LH at this time you should make a call to the IUI clinic to schedule an appointment for insemination. All the time it is important for your body to be in rhythm and to be relaxed so you might like to have a comfort meal at home like Hunan shrimp. It’s a very flavorful recipe that can be served with white rice and veggies. Just make sure to reduce the number of spices if they don’t go well with your stomach anymore. (1)

General Advice 

When you’re preparing your body for IUI it is important to have a good diet, exercise, and live a healthy lifestyle. All of this will contribute greatly to your chances of being successful once you have the IUI done. Make sure you cut back on your intake of alcohol, stop smoking and reduce the amount of caffeine you drink. Enjoy tasty meals which are good for your body such as a recipe for how long to boil chicken or Szechuan shrimp.

Both dishes can be paired with whole grains and vegetables which are considered healthy. Let your doctor know if you are taking any other medication because IUI can be a stressful experience. Take the time to let your body relax and try some yoga or meditation and if you want some added advice take a look for a support group in your local area. Look online and read all the information about IUI so that you know what to expect and you won’t be anxious before the procedure. 

Medication and Cycle Tracking 

If you’re using infertility drugs to help you achieve success with IUI the preparation time will depend on the kind of drugs you’re using. Before the IUI procedure takes place you might take a combination of pills and have injections. Among the most commonly prescribed drugs for ovulation is Clomid. The usual procedure is to take one Clomid pill for five consecutive days every month. This will trigger the follicles in your ovulation to help produce and release mature eggs which are ready for fertilization.

This helps the IUI process to know the best time to do the insemination. Once you have completed your pill cycle you might have to take an injection of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin hCG to help begin your ovulation. Before you have this injection you’ll be given an ultrasound exam to make sure that your follicles are mature enough to release an egg. After the hCG injection ovulation usually takes place in 36 -40 hours and your doctor will let you know when you have to come in for the IUI procedure. (2)