Semen quality and intrauterine insemination: A retrospective study

Abstract

Objective The aim of the study was to evaluate the sperm parameters in fresh and washed samples and define the factors for predicting success after intrauterine insemination (IUI). Materials and Methods All couples undergoing IUI were retrospectively enrolled, a total of 419 IUI cycles were included. Sperm samples were prepared using the swim-up. Results There were no seminal parameters that could be considered as being predictors of pregnancy. After sperm washed, there was an improvement in sperm motility and a decrese in sperm concentration. There was also a significant difference in volume between individuals under 40 and those over 40. Conclusion There are no seminal parameters that can predict the success of the insemination, basically because achieving a pregnancy is due to many factors. However, laboratory processing considerably improves the sperm motility of samples and IUI has acceptable pregnancy rates; therefore it should be considered a first choice treatment.