Artificial insemination is short and relatively painless. Many women describe it as similar to a Pap smear. You may have cramping during the procedure and light bleeding afterward. Your doctor will probably have you lie down for about 15 to 45 minutes to give the sperm a chance to get to work.

What does artificial insemination feel like?

While the IUI itself was uncomfortable and awkward, it didn't hurt. The insertion of the catheter felt a lot like a tight, one-second pinch. “Most women compare it to a Pap test,” says Ari Baratz, a fertility specialist at the Create Fertility Centre in Toronto.

Is IUI insemination painful?

Does IUI Hurt? The IUI procedure should only take a few minutes and it shouldn't hurt. Some mild discomfort may occur when the speculum is inserted, or you may experience cramping when the catheter passes through the cervix. The discomfort is temporary and should be gone by the end of the procedure.