ART refers to Assisted Reproductive Technology, which includes artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and its derived techniques such as the first, second, and third generations of IVF, as well as technologies involving the freezing and thawing of eggs, sperm, embryos, etc. Below, we will mainly introduce ART techniques, their indications, and contraindications. However, the final choice should be made under the guidance of a professional doctor and based on individual circumstances.

Artificial Insemination

Artificial insemination involves the injection of processed semen into the female reproductive tract or uterine cavity through artificial means to address infertility issues in patients. This method is relatively close to natural conception. Depending on the source of the semen, it is divided into artificial insemination with husband’s semen (AIH) and artificial insemination with donor semen (AID), both of which share the same technique.

Indications for Artificial Insemination:

AIH (Artificial Insemination with Husband’s Semen)

Abnormal semen analysis, sexual dysfunction, reproductive organ malformations leading to male infertility
Cervical factors, immune factors, unexplained infertility in females
Female reproductive tract abnormalities and psychological factors leading to intercourse inability
AID (Artificial Insemination with Donor Semen)

Severe oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, teratozoospermia, azoospermia
Male/family history of severe hereditary diseases unsuitable for reproduction
Special blood type/maternal-fetal blood type incompatibility, ineffective treatment
Contraindications for Artificial Insemination:

Bilateral tubal obstruction, severe reproductive tract malformations causing infertility in females
Presence of three or more dominant follicles ≥16mm, risk of multiple pregnancies
Acute infection in one party, recent contact with toxic substances
Severe genetic, physical, mental illnesses in one party, unsuitable for pregnancy
Severe bad habits such as drug abuse in one party
※ Patients diagnosed with azoospermia need testicular biopsy to determine if spermatogenesis is lost. If normal sperm production exists, the second-generation IVF technique can be used to help patients conceive, but if patients request to give up their own fertility, they need to sign an informed consent form to relinquish their reproductive rights and opt for artificial insemination with donor semen or IVF with donor sperm to assist reproduction.