[Intra-uterine artificial insemination. Indications, techniques, results; 83 cases]

Retrospective study of results after intra-uterine artificial insemination performed in the Poitiers University Hospital.

There were 95 infertile couples who benefited from intra-uterine artificial insemination. Indications involved pathology of the cervix in 53% of the cases and male infertility in 30%. Another cause of infertility was found in 5% and no cause could be identified in 12%.

The technique was as follows. Ovary stimulation using clomifene and hMG, sonographic monitoring with oestradiol assay, hCG for triggering ovulation, 2 inseminations at 24 and 48 h after swim-up sperm preparation and luteal phase supplementation.

The overall success rate was 32.6% with a mean success rate per cycle of 11.1%. The best results were obtained in couples with unexplained infertility and cervix-related infertility (42 and 32% respectively). These results are comparable to those in the literature.

The results of this series and the data reported in the literature demonstrate the interest of intra-uterine artificial insemination in cases of cervical sterility where it is indicated as first intention treatment. In case of impaired ejaculation, unexplained sterility and certain other causes of male infertility, intra-uterine artificial insemination can be useful but requires further study in order to determine the criteria for indications and the techniques to be used. Associating ovary stimulation increases the probability of success, especially in cervical sterility. Finally, more than 4 to 5 attempts do not increased success rate.