Cramping after Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is quite normal, but yes, there are chances it might become severe and unbearable that can raise a concern. Before knowing the causes of this cramping, let’s look at what IUI means.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a common fertility procedure where sperm from the male partner or a sperm donor is inserted directly into the uterus. This makes it much easier for the sperms to reach the fallopian tubes and the egg, which helps to pace up the process of fertilization.
IUI is generally done when you are ovulating. Some doctors prescribe you medication to help you ovulate. A woman undergoes the IUI procedure involving around a two-week waiting period. Within two weeks, the women conceive as soon as the embryo is implanted in the uterus. This implantation results in some amount of mild cramping and bleeding.
A few questions might come up in your mind when such cramps occur. This blog will solve your doubts and help you understand what you expect from it.
What to Expect During an IUI Procedure?
Your doctor will inform you when you need to visit the clinic for your IUI procedure if your partner or the sperm donor may be asked to arrive early for the collection.
Once you arrive at the office, you are brought into an exam room, and you will have to undress from the waist below and a drape will be placed over your lap.
The medical assistant will then get the sperm into the exam room and verify the sample’s name and date of birth. This ensures that the correct sperm is being used for the procedure.
The doctors will then transfer the sperm sample into a syringe and later join a catheter (thin tube) at the end of the syringe. Later the doctor will visualize your cervix by inserting a scope into the vagina.
Next, they’ll use a cotton swab to clean the extra mucus or vaginal fluid from the cervix. The doctor will then insert the catheter into the uterus through the cervix. Once in place, the sperms are pushed into the uterus by pressing the syringe’s plunger.
In the end, the doctor removes the catheter and cleans the area. Once done, you may rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
After the IUI Process
Once you are done with IUI, you should feel fine. Your doctor will tell you the dos and don’ts after the procedure like:
You can probably get back to work very soon after the procedure. After some time, you can expect minor bleeding or cramping, which is a good sign as this happens when implantation occurs.
Cramping after IUI is very common. Reasons for such crampings are::
Sperms are injected into the uterus by a catheter. When the catheter crosses the delicate cervix area you might experience mild pain and cramping. This can happen normally. Cramping after IUI is a normal sign that goes away after the catheter is pulled out.
You can also feel the cramps if the catheter leads to an infection in your reproductive system. Feel free to ask your doctor if the cramps are not typical and need medical attention.
The major reason for cramping after IUI is implantation. If you are trying to conceive, you can hope the implantation cramps ascertain your pregnancy. Hence implantation cramps are a positive sign of a successful IUI. Yet you should wait to get a pregnancy report to ensure that you will be a mother. Don’t forget to discuss with your doctor to narrow down the reasons for these cramps.
Have queries or concern ?
When Cramping Could Be a Cause for Concern
Minor cramps are expected after the IUI procedure, but you may get unbearable pain that you cannot live with under certain circumstances.
This is a sign that you consult your doctor immediately and report all your symptoms. Note that any fertility procedure like IUI or IVF processes needs special care from start to end.
If this cramping continues to increase and along with that, if you observe any abnormal vagina discharge, fever, heaving bleeding, or extreme pain, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Conclusion:
In the majority of cases, cramping after an IUI is not so painful. It usually is a minor pain that subsides very soon. Taking a pain reliever advised by your doctor can be helpful. Remember to take a rest as much as you can. Contact your doctor immediately if you have severe cramping accompanied by other symptoms.
We can help you if you are ready to expand your family but need some help to make it happen. We will arrange a consultation, and you can be confident that the IUI treatment will be priced to fit your budget.
At Sahyadri Hospital, we have experienced and expert fertility doctors. Whenever you need expert advice or a consultation on your Infertility issue, you can always consider our hospital to get safe and successful treatment.
For a quick response to all your queries, do call us.
