Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is one of the most common fertility treatment offered to couples struggling to conceive. It is less invasive and more affordable compared to other advanced reproductive procedures like IVF.

How IUI Works

IUI involves placing washed and concentrated sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. This increases the chances of sperm reaching the egg, making conception more likely. To improve success rates, doctors may prescribe fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries and encourage the release of one or more eggs.

Twin Pregnancy and IUI

The possibility of twins largely depends on whether fertility drugs are used during the IUI cycle:

• Natural IUI (without medication): In this case, the chances of twins are very low—similar to natural conception—around 1–2%.

• IUI with Ovulation Induction: When medications like Clomiphene Citrate or injectable gonadotropins are used, the ovaries may release more than one egg. This increases the chances of twins to around 10–20%, and in rare cases, higher-order multiples may occur.

Factors That Influence Twin Chances

Several factors affect whether IUI treatment may result in twins:

• Type of medication used – Stronger stimulation drugs increase the likelihood of multiple eggs.

• Dosage and monitoring – Higher doses can lead to multiple follicles, raising the chance of multiples.

• Age of the woman – Younger women often respond more actively to stimulation medication, slightly increasing twin chances.

• Ovarian response – Some women naturally release more than one egg.

Risks Associated with Twin Pregnancies

While many couples are excited by the idea of twins, it’s important to understand that multiple pregnancies carry certain risks, such as:

• Preterm birth.

• Low birth weight.

• Gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.

• Higher risk of cesarean delivery.

Doctors usually monitor IUI cycles closely with ultrasounds and blood tests to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies.

Conclusion

The chances of twins with IUI treatment depend mainly on whether fertility medications are used and how the ovaries respond. While natural IUI cycles carry a very low risk of twins, medicated cycles increase the likelihood significantly. It’s essential to discuss these possibilities with your fertility clinic before starting treatment so you are fully aware of both the opportunities and risks.