Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that can improve the chances of pregnancy by placing specially prepared sperm directly in the uterus. The procedure is also known as artificial insemination and is used most often in people who have conditions such as unexplained infertility, abnormal sperm count or mobility, cervical problems, and ejaculation dysfunction. During the monthly cycle, one of the two ovaries releases an egg, and IUI can be timed with a persons menstrual cycle. Or fertility medicines may be used along with IUI to help the ovaries produce eggs. The exact method used depends on the reasons for infertility. The IUI procedure itself takes just a few minutes once the semen sample is prepared, and no medicines or pain relievers are needed. The doctor slides a thin, flexible tube through the cervix into the uterus and uses a small syringe to insert the sperm through the tube directly into the uterus. The hoped-for outcome is for the sperm and egg to unite in the fallopian tube, which connects the uterus to the ovaries. If this happens, it leads to pregnancy. IUI is a simple and low-tech procedure, and it can be less expensive than other types of fertility treatments. The cost of IUI varies depending on what type of insurance coverage you have and how much your doctor’s fees are. In general, it costs about $300-$1,000 without insurance. The risks of IUI causing serious health problems are low, but risks include infection and vaginal bleeding due to the placement of the catheter inside the uterus. IUI by itself may not be associated with a risk of multiple pregnancies. However, when coupled with ovulation-inducing medication, you are at a higher risk of multiple pregnancies.