linsémination

L'insémination, or artificial insemination, refers to medical techniques that place sperm inside the female reproductive tract to enable fertilization without sexual intercourse. It applies to humans and animals and is a component of broader assisted reproductive technologies in humans and is widely used in animal breeding.

In humans, artificial insemination is commonly performed as intracervical insemination (ICI) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). Semen may come from a partner or a donor and is collected, screened for infections, and processed to concentrate motile sperm. The procedure is usually timed with ovulation, and in some cases ovulation-inducing medications are used to improve chances. Donor insemination serves single women and lesbian couples, as well as couples with male-factor infertility who prefer donor sperm.

In animal breeding, AI is standard practice for livestock, horses, and other species. Semen is collected from males, evaluated, and stored (often cryopreserved) for later insemination into the female reproductive tract. AI enables selective breeding, genetic improvement, disease control, and efficient use of high-quality sires.

Indications for human AI include mild male-factor infertility, cervical factor issues, unexplained infertility, or the desire to use donor sperm. Success depends on age, underlying fertility factors, semen quality, and the number of cycles. Risks are generally low but can include multiple pregnancy, infection, or complications from fertility drugs if used. Ethical and regulatory considerations cover donor screening, informed consent, donor anonymity, and limits on offspring produced from a single donor in some jurisdictions.