IUI and Getting Pregnant with Twins – What Are Your Chances?

Intrauterine insemination or IUI is a commonly opted course of action by couples who are unable to conceive naturally. It is a fairly uncomplicated technique, unlike other infertility measures. Also, it may cost much less. But despite its simplicity, there are certain risks associated with the process. IUI and the use of fertility drugs can greatly increase your odds of having twins. The procedure of IUI entails inserting specially treated sperm cells directly into a woman’s uterus by using a thin catheter. Though this does not mean twin pregnancy, taking fertility drugs can swell a woman’s chances to become pregnant with twins as such drugs tend to stimulate the ovaries into producing many eggs at a given time.

Does IUI Help You Conceive Twins?

The most likely risks of an IUI include OHSS or Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome and multiple births. In case a woman is on fertility drugs, the probability of multiple births surges further. But it is not necessary that fertility drugs are always involved in combination with IUI. However, most doctors often propose fertility medication to patients to enhance their possibility of conception by way of stimulating the ovaries to release more eggs.

What Are the Chances of Having Twins or Multiples with IUI Treatment?

The chances of conceiving multiples with IUI are as follows:

• IUI Alone

IUI alone does not provide a very promising chance of multiples. On the contrary, with IUI, a patient is not much likely to conceive multiples. Technically, the onus of having twins rests upon the fertility drugs which are generally advised by the doctor in unification with IUI.

• IUI with Fertility Drugs

The fertility drugs that are commonly taken in concurrence with IUI include gonadotropins and Clomid. Statistics reveal that women taking Clomid have about 10 per cent chance of getting pregnant with twins and about one per cent or even less chance of conceiving with triplets. Whereas women who take gonadotropins along with IUI are 30 per cent more likely to conceive high-order pregnancies and multiple births.

Is It Risky to Try for Twins Through Fertility Treatments?

It is not uncommon for couples trying to conceive to be disposed to the idea of having twins as a bargain for two at the price of one. They may feel so considering the fertility expenses, the emotional distress and the effort of treatments. But this is a risky notion as having twins carries tremendous risks for both the expecting mother and the unborn babies. Some potential complications are:

• Multiple pregnancies can pose certain risks for the expectant mother like preterm labour, the chance of developing gestational diabetes, preeclampsia or pregnancy-induced hypertension, and heightened stress levels.

• Multiples are also at an advanced risk of being born prematurely. They may suffer lifelong problems owing to their prematurity. Some IUI twins’ symptoms may consist of vision troubles, cognitive and developmental delays, cerebral palsy, weak lungs, liver and respiratory issues, and heart problems.

• Having twins runs a significant risk for the pregnancy resulting in a miscarriage or stillbirth.

IUI is one of the commonly recommended infertility treatments. It presents the minimum odds of having multiples and thus the smallest risk to both the mom and baby.

Also Read:

How to Get Pregnant with Twins
Pregnancy Symptoms After a Successful IUI
IUI vs IVF: Which is Right for You?