[30somethingmom]

There are so many different treatments and procedures that it is difficult to keep everything straight. What is the difference between artificial insemination and IUI? Why would you choose one over the other?

[hopeful1097]

I was wondering the same question. I was told one time that they changed AI to IUI because it sounded better and AI is the term they vets use for animal procedures. Have no idea if this is true. I will research it a little and see what I can come up with.

[slobin]

These terms are synonomous. AI- Artificial insemination is the "outdated" term and the newer one is IUI- intrauterine insemination. I think that the "artificial" is off-putting so they tried to make it sound more appealing.

[30somethingmom]

Thanks for clearing that up for us, Slobin. I always thought "artificial" was a poor choice of words anyway. It makes the whole experience sound fake or something.

[Gemmabean]

I wondered why there was a listing here for IUI AND AI...

[mondk]

As far as I know, there is also still ICI although I haven't heard of many using it. That is where they place the sperm at your cervix instead of your uterus. Some of my older fertility books mention it, but the newer ones don't, so it may be an outdated thing.


Blessings, Michelle