Skip to content
EN-US
Book now
Book now
Our blog / Updates
18 May 2025

Can IUI Lead to Twins in Medical Practice?

18 May 2025
Updates

Can IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) result in twins?

Can IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) result in twins?
Yes, IUI treatment can result in a twin pregnancy. However, no fertility clinic can guarantee 100% that IUI will lead to twins. The process is similar to natural conception — one egg is fertilized by one sperm. In IUI, ovulation-stimulating medication is used to help the woman release more than one egg, and a concentrated sample of sperm is injected into the uterus.

If two eggs are released and fertilized by two separate sperm, and both embryos implant in the uterus, this can result in a “fraternal twin” pregnancy.
Alternatively, if there is a family history of identical twins (on either the mother’s or father’s side), there may be a chance for identical twins to occur — even through IUI. Identical twins happen when a single egg is fertilized by a single sperm and then splits into two embryos, sharing the same gestational sac. This is less common and carries higher medical risks.

What’s the difference between identical and fraternal twins?

  • Identical twins (monozygotic):
    These twins share the same physical appearance, such as facial features, body shape, hair color, and blood type. While they are genetically identical, slight physical differences may occur due to environmental factors during pregnancy. Identical twin pregnancies carry higher risks, such as sharing the same placenta or amniotic sac. Therefore, these pregnancies require close medical supervision.
  • Fraternal twins (dizygotic):
    These twins are more common and result from two eggs fertilized by two different sperm. Fraternal twins may be of the same or different sex, have different blood types, and may not look identical — similar to regular siblings born at different times.

Advantages of having twins:

    • You get two children from one pregnancy, which many see as a blessing.
    • Twins can grow up as close companions, helping each other emotionally and socially. This sibling bond is seen as a positive outcome by many parents.

Disadvantages of having twins:

    • Higher risks during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Twin pregnancies require more frequent medical check-ups and closer monitoring.
    • The risk of pregnancy-related complications is higher. The mother may experience discomfort due to a larger uterus size, especially in the second and third trimesters, leading to shortness of breath, fatigue, and difficulty moving around.

Summary

IUI treatment can result in twins, but the outcome cannot be guaranteed. It depends on various factors such as genetics, the number of eggs released, and successful fertilization.
In contrast, ICSI (a form of IVF) has a higher chance of twin pregnancies if two embryos are transferred during the procedure.

If you’re concerned or would like more information, you’re welcome to consult at Beyond IVF or contact us via Line at @beyondivf

Other success stories
Updates

Severe Menstrual Cramps: What Causes Them and When to See a Doctor?

Read the story
Updates

Irregular Periods: What Causes It and Is It Dangerous?

Read the story
Updates

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Read the story
Updates

Cervical Cancer: A Hidden Danger Women Often Overlook

Read the story
Explore them all

The Biological Clock

This tool indicates:

  • Natural conception per month if you have no fertility issues
  • IVF success rate at the same age
  • When to seek help after months of unsuccessful attempts

If you are concerned at any stage – we recommend booking a doctor appointment or a free nurse consultation. The sooner you make a plan the better your chances in the long term.

When to seek advice early
  • If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.
  • If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.
Set your age and the months you’ve been trying to conceive
26
2
Your chance of having a baby per month for fertile couples
Your chance of having a baby per IVF cycle (if experiencing infertility)

Body Mass Index calculator

Being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility, so it is important to keep your body weight within the normal healthy range.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication of your body weight and can be calculated by dividing weight by height. You should aim for a BMI of between 20 and 25, as this will optimise your chances of conception.

Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

Add your height and weight to calculate your BMI
+662 114 7278