Artificial insemination

Abstract

In some cases of male impotence, dyspareunia, ejaculatory failure, and defective cervical invasion, artificial insemination with the husband's semen may be indicated. In the first three conditions named, self-insemination by the wife is possible. Artificial insemination with donated semen has been carried out in cases of incurable male sterility and for genetic reasons. The procedure and technique of artificial insemination with the husband's semen and artificial insemination with donated semen. (choice of cycle day, suitability of semen, method of cervical instillation) are described. The selection of semen donors and the organization of artificial insemination with donated semen are discussed. Some potential dangers of artificial insemination—e.g., uterine infection, dysgenic conception from defective or damaged sperms—are enumerated. Two small series of cases are reviewed. © 1945, British Medical Journal Publishing Group. All rights reserved.