Counselling patients for artificial insemination and subsequent pregnancy

Patients contemplating conception by artificial insemination can be assured that their pregnancy will be as normal as that following natural insemination. In particular, there is no evidence of increased rate of abortion or fetal abnormality. In general, the results of AIH are disappointing and patients should be made aware of this before such treatment is advised or undertaken. The indications must be well defined and a realistic prognosis given. Pregnancy rates with AID are good using either fresh or frozen semen. It is the moral and legal implications of this procedure which raise the problems. Therefore it is vital that a couple be allowed to consider these problems fully before proceeding and it is the responsibility of their medical practitioner to ensure that they have the facility to do this.