P.M. Artificial insemination can then be performed 36 to 40 hours later. Irrespective of whether you are using Method A or B, the preferred duration of abstinence from sexual activity for the male partner is between one and three days before the insemination. Longer periods of abstinence may improve sperm counts, but tend to decrease sperm quality. Shorter periods of abstinence may result in lower sperm counts. The pregnancy success rates vary widely depending on the cause of your infertility, your age, and on the utilization of additional treatments such as clomiphene or gonadotropins.
Artificial insemination is usually a painless procedure, although some women experience cramping.
Most inseminations are performed by the nursing staff. In rare cases, the cervical canal that provides access to the uterine cavity may be narrowed, and it may be difficult to pass the insemination catheter into the uterine cavity. Therefore, it may become necessary dilate the cervix which often provides lasting relaxation of the cervical canal. If you are going to undergo artificial insemination with your husband's sperm, then your risk of contracting an infection from this insemination should be similar to that associated with normal intercourse with your husband. Donor sperm is subjected to extensive testing before use.