What do IUI and ICI mean?
IUI-ready sperm have been processed (washed). Before cryopreservation, the sperm are separated from the seminal fluid and the fluid is replaced with a preservative fluid; this fluid replacement is the so-called “washing” process. This method places washed semen directly into the uterus by passing a catheter through the cervical canal. More sperm cells can reach the uterus and consequently more sperm is available for fertilization. Washing the sperm cells is necessary since otherwise prostaglandins in the seminal fluid could cause the uterus to cramp, expelling the sperm and causing pain. Proper timing of insemination is important with IUI. ICI (intracervical insemination): These specimens contain raw semen which can be used for IVF cycles, vaginal or intracervical inseminations only unless they are washed after thawing by a doctor/nurse. These specimens hold all of the naturally occuring ejaculate fluid and cells. There will still be plenty of motile sperm, but dead sperm as well. Cerv
