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Artificial inseminations are scheduled to occur at the time a woman is ovulating. Ovulation occurs when the ovary releases a mature egg. For women with regular menstrual cycles, it usually occurs 14 days before the start of their next menstrual period. Ovulation is often estimated with the aid of ovulation tests, basal body temperature charts and a cervical mucus examination. Blood tests measuring levels of the hormone LH (luteinizing hormone) and ultrasounds may also be used.   

The insemination procedure is usually performed once or twice a month, depending on the regularity of the woman’s menstrual cycle. It is a fairly simple procedure and takes only a few minutes to complete. Artificial insemination may be performed at the office of a gynecologist or in many cases by a physician specializing in infertility (board-certified in reproductive endocrinology). During the procedure, the woman lies back on an examining table with her knees up. Her feet will be placed in stirrups and her buttocks should be located near the end of the table. The physician then inserts a speculum into the woman’s vagina, and injects the semen sample into her reproductive tract.   

During an intracervical insemination (ICI), a plastic syringe is used to inject the semen into the opening of the cervix. Following the injection, a plastic-coated sponge or cap may be placed into the vagina before the speculum is removed. The sponge or cap, which keeps the sperm near the cervix, can be removed by the patient four to six hours after the insemination procedure.  

An intrauterine insemination (IUI) is performed in a slightly different manner. During this procedure, the physician passes a soft tube, known as a catheter, through the cervix to place the sperm directly into the uterus. After the injection, the catheter is slowly withdrawn and the woman is instructed to remain lying flat for approximately 15 minutes. The patient may experience mild to moderate cramping.