Artificial Insemination

My friend recently confided in me that she will begin artificial insemination. I didn't want to ask too many questions because she was very upset but I don't really understand what the process entails. I'm sorry if it's a silly question, but can someone explain it to me in layman's terms? What issues does the male or female have that results in this procedure? And how is it different from IVF.

Re: Artificial Insemination

Usually this is refering to IUI.

The female may have to take fertility meds to make her ovulate and/or produce more eggs.

The male deposits his sperm, they "clean" it and use a catheter to inject it directly into the female, thus trying to improve her chances of concieving.

It's usually the step before moving to IVF.



This website explains it pretty well (better than I did!!):

http://www.babycenter.com/refcap/preconception/fertilityproblems/4092.html

Message edited 1/24/2007 4:41:29 PM.