There are various ways to obtain a sperm sample for an intrauterine insemination (IUI). These include ejaculation, and thawing frozen sperm samples. The following guide will help guide you through the process of sperm collection and preparation for an IUI.
Producing A Sperm Sample
Please refrain from intercourse or masturbation for 48 hours prior to the day of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) to ensure that your sperm count is at its optimum level.
If you live within 90 minutes of the location of the IUI procedure, you can produce your sample at home. If you live further than 90 minutes from TRIO, you will be provided with a private room at the clinic to produce your sample by masturbation.
One of our staff will provide you with a sterile container. We ask that you urinate and wash your hands prior to producing the specimen and wash your hands after producing the specimen. Please be careful not to touch the inside of the container or lid with your hand or penis. The inside of the container is sterile.
The specimen should be collected by masturbation. Do not collect the specimen into a condom, unless it is a special non-toxic condom prescribed by your TRIO physician. Do not use lubrication, unless it is the “sperm-friendly” type, which can be picked up at the clinic. Once the sample is produced and collected in the sterile container, please keep the container at body temperature, by placing the sample container against your skin, either under your armpit or against your stomach held in place by your pant line..
Thawing Frozen Sperm
Frozen sperm samples will be thawed on the morning of the IUI.
Sperm Washing
On the morning of the IUI, the sperm sample will be “washed” to remove impurities and isolate the most potent, highest-quality sperm to be placed directly into the uterus. This process removes dead sperm and cellular debris. This helps protect living sperm within the sample and creates a higher probability of fertilization.
It is common to feel anxious after the sperm collection. You have been through a lot to make it to this point, and we want you to have the best possible experience. Please do not hesitate to contact your Primary Care Nurse if you have any questions.
Frequently Asked Questions for Sperm Providers: Before the Sperm Collection
Why am I asked to refrain from intercourse or masturbation 48 hours prior to the IUI?
This helps ensure that your sperm count is optimal.
Can I have alcohol leading up to the sperm collection?
Please refrain from consuming alcohol for 3 days prior to your sperm collection.
How should I prepare to produce my sperm sample?
Make sure to eat breakfast on the morning of your sample production.
Frequently Asked Questions for Sperm Providers: The Morning of the IUI
Where do I produce my sperm sample?
If you live within 90 minutes from TRIO (655 Bay Street, Toronto), you can produce your sample at home. If you live further than 90 minutes from TRIO, you will be provided with a private room at the clinic to produce your sample.
What do I do with the specimen container?
You ejaculate into the container. Our Lab will then “wash” the sperm sample to remove impurities and isolate the most potent, highest quality sperm to be placed directly into the uterus. This process removes dead sperm and cellular debris. This helps protect living sperm within the sample and creates a higher probability of fertilization.
Where do I drop off my fresh sample?
If the IUI takes place at TRIO’s downtown clinic, please deliver your sample to the Andrology Suite on the 11th floor at your scheduled time.
If the IUI takes place at the Thornhill or North York clinic, please deliver your sample to the front desk receptionist at your scheduled time.
How do I keep my fresh sperm sample at body temperature once it is produced?
Place the sample container against your skin, either under your armpit or against your stomach held in place by your pant line.
I’m using frozen sperm. When will it be thawed?
Frozen sperm will be thawed on the morning of the IUI.
Frequently Asked Questions for Sperm Providers: During the IUI
Can I be in the procedure room with my partner during the IUI?
Unfortunately, you will not be able to stay with your partner throughout the procedure.
How long does it take to do the IUI?
The IUI procedure takes about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions for Sperm Providers: After the IUI
When can I have intercourse after the IUI?
You can have intercourse 3 days after the IUI, or later as per your comfort level.
When is the earliest we can do a home pregnancy test?
We recommend waiting until at least 14 days after your IUI.