Artificial insemination is performed when there are complications in conceiving through intercourse.
In vitro fertilization is performed by placing a fertilized egg inside of the uterus. The sperm and egg have already been united in a laboratory dish and there is no need for the egg or sperm to travel in the fallopian tubes. Women who have had their tubes tied, removal of the fallopian tubes or damaged fallopian tubes may benefit from in vitro fertilization. Artificial insemination is performed by placing the husband's sperm or a donor's sperm into the uterus with a small, plastic catheter. This procedure is called IUI or intrauterine insemination.