Hi san2
I’m a silent reader on this thread and saw your question on IUI.
I have been through 4 failed cycles of IUI. But everyone reacts differently to it, so don’t let what you read or hear discourage you. In any case, I’ve not given up on IUI especially when I know mentally, physically & financially, I’m not ready for IVF. Indeed, success rate is not that high and my doc told me is about 25%. Well, but even with IVF which is much more invasive also does not guarantee 100% success. Nonetheless, there are still cases where people strike with their first IUI.
You can refer to the thread here whereby lately got 2 forummers striked with their 1st IUI! So it really depends on individual and of coz, loads of baby luck.
http://www.singaporemotherhood.com/forumboard/messages/5/412490.html?1320829636
Generally, the procedure itself is painless. Infact, you don’t even feel anything and the troops are all inside you before you even know it. The trick is to remain cool & calm and talk to your doctor or nurse to take your off mind. But the clamping device to open up your cervix is a little uncomfortable. Normally for me, I will feel cramping the very next day after IUI. It’s perfectly normal as informed by my doctor. Thereafter, you can do your normal activities, but avoid any strenuous exercise or doing housework. Get as much bed rest if you could.
IMHO, no harm trying out IUI. At least there is someone who can help scan & monitor to see if you’re ovulating, whether your womb or lining is at the correct thickness and follicles are mature and big enough before putting you through IUI, especially for my case, my dh & I do have underlying fertility issues.
Btw, mine is IUI + xerephene (aka clomid). Another type is the SO-IUI which requires daily injections for 1 week or so. I’m too not sure on that. But you can always speak with your doctor to find out more before you decide. Sorry for the lengthy post! Good Luck!