IUI Patient Instruction Sheet Frozen Sperm

PART 1: CYCLE TRACKING & OVULATION PREDICTION

Careful timing is essential for a successful IUI cycle.

Dr. Wong | 360-972-0316

Ovulation (LH) Testing

Ovulation is detected by identifying your luteinizing hormone (LH) surge using ovulation predictor kits (OPKs).

When to Start Testing

  • Begin testing the day after your menstrual flow stops
  • Test twice daily
    • Morning
    • Evening

Testing twice daily helps ensure your LH surge is not missed.

If You Are Taking Ovulation Medications

If prescribed letrozole or clomiphene (Clomid):

  • Take medication on Cycle Days 3–7
    (Cycle Day 1 = first day of full menstrual flow)
  • Begin LH testing on Cycle Day 8
  • Continue testing twice daily until a surge is detected

Positive LH Surge

  • Notify Dr. Wong immediately when your LH test is positive.
  • Ovulation typically occurs 24–36 hours after the LH surge.
  • Your IUI will be scheduled:
    • The evening of your surge
      OR
    • The following day

Prompt communication is critical for proper timing.

PART 2: FROZEN SPERM INSTRUCTIONS

If using frozen sperm, please follow these steps carefully.

Ordering & Timing

  • Use a 1-week sperm tank
  • Arrange shipment so it arrives:
    • By mail to your home
      OR
    • Pick up 2–3 days before your anticipated LH surge

Plan ahead so the specimen is available before ovulation.

Day of IUI (Frozen Specimen)

  • Bring the frozen sperm tank to your IUI appointment.
  • Do not open the tank.
  • Dr. Wong will thaw (defrost) the sperm in the office prior to the procedure.

If Using Seattle Sperm Bank

  • Ensure Dr. Wong completes the required “Release of Sperm” form before shipment.
  • Confirm all required documentation has been processed before delivery.

DAY OF THE PROCEDURE

Sperm Preparation

  • Sperm preparation: 20 min
  • During this time:
    • You may take a walk
    • Get coffee or tea
  • Dr. Wong will notify you when to return for the procedure.

The IUI Procedure

The procedure is similar to a Pap smear:

  • A speculum is placed.
  • A long, sterile catheter is gently passed through the cervix into the uterus.
  • The sperm is injected as close to the fallopian tubes as possible.

Procedure time: Approximately 10 minutes.

After the insemination:

  • You will rest on the table for 20 minutes.
  • Acupuncture may be provided during this time if desired.
  • You are free to leave after the rest period.

AFTER THE PROCEDURE

  • Rest and take it easy for the remainder of the day.
    • You may work if needed.
    • Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.
  • Mild cramping is common and normal.
    • May be intermittent
    • Can last up to 4 days
  • Mild spotting may occur for 1–2 days
  • You may return to normal activities the following day.

RISKS & WHEN TO SEEK CARE

Serious complications are rare. The primary risks include:

  • Uterine perforation
  • Infection

Go to the emergency room immediately if you experience:

  • Fever
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Nausea or vomiting

QUESTIONS

Please call Dr. Wong with any questions or concerns before or after your procedure.

Phone: 360-972-0316

We are honored to be part of your fertility journey and are here to support you every step of the way.

Call Dr. Wong anytime:
360-972-0316