Looking for the low down on the FemaSeed procedure in 2026? We’ve got you

It’s a query that keeps coming up across discussions and forums online – what is FemaSeed, and is the FemaSeed procedure worth a go?

When it comes to any kind of fertility treatment, clear, up-to-date explanations of what’s involved and whether it could be right for you isn’t always easy to come by. 

But equally, this kind of information is so key when you’re looking to take the next step on your journey to parenthood. Many on the team have super personal experience of this here at TRB HQ, and know the feeling of trawling through the forums looking for any patient-friendly info possible. 

If that’s you, we see you, and we hear you. With expert insight from Femasys (the team behind FemaSeed, if you’re not in the know), we’re breaking it down, helping you understand what FemaSeed is, exactly how it works, who it’s for, and what you can expect from asking your OB-GYN about it in 2026.

Let’s go!

What is FemaSeed?

FemaSeed is the next generation of artificial insemination, called intratubal insemination (ITI).

This is where, as opposed to just putting sperm into the uterus, it gets placed directly into the fallopian tube instead, using a specially designed, gentle system that allows your clinician to place prepared sperm directly where fertilization naturally happens.

The goal is simple: improve the chances of sperm meeting the egg by delivering them directly into the fallopian tube – the site of natural conception – in a controlled way.

Where’s the gap that FemaSeed fills?

FemaSeed was developed by a female-founded team to address some of the limitations of traditional IUI, particularly for people facing male factor infertility.

Unlike standard IUI, which places sperm into the uterus, FemaSeed is designed to deliver sperm directly into the fallopian tube, where fertilisation naturally takes place. The device also uses a small balloon to help keep sperm in place, reducing the chance of it flowing back into the uterus after the procedure.

This targeted approach has shown promising results in clinical studies, being shown to be more than twice as effective as historical IUI outcomes, offering an additional option for those who may need extra support to conceive.

Because FemaSeed can be used during a natural cycle or alongside ovulation-stimulating medication, it may also provide a less invasive treatment pathway for some patients before considering IVF.

Who is FemaSeed for? 

Ask your OB-GYN or fertility team about FemaSeed if you:

• Have been trying to conceive for some time without success
• Have male factor infertility, such as low sperm count or motility
• Are using donor sperm
• Have PCOS or ovulation timing challenges
• Are looking for a less invasive option before moving to IVF
• Are pursuing fertility treatment as a single parent or same-sex couple

Your clinician will assess your medical history, test results, and overall fertility picture to decide whether it’s the right option for you.

The FemaSeed procedure, step-by-step

Step 1 – An internal ultrasound is used to determine the location of your mature egg (aka. Your dominant follicle).

Step 2 – FemaSeed is placed in the uterine cavity and positioned towards the selected fallopian tube. An abdominal ultrasound is used to make sure the device is in the correct location.

Step 3 – Sperm is delivered through FemaSeed and into the opening of the fallopian tube.

Step 4 – FemaSeed is removed, leaving the sperm behind in the fallopian tube, right where conception occurs.

When is it performed?

The FemaSeed procedure will need to happen during the first half of your menstrual cycle, and it can be done by your OB-GYN in their office with little to no extra prep time.

From a scheduling perspective, it usually fits seamlessly into an existing insemination workflow, rather than adding extra weeks or steps like IVF does. Win.

Is it uncomfortable? 

Most people describe the procedure as quick and manageable.

You’ll lie on an exam table, similar to a routine pelvic exam. A speculum is gently inserted to allow your clinician to access the cervix. The FemaSeed catheter is then guided through the cervix into the uterus.

The catheter’s flexible design allows it to adapt to your anatomy, which helps minimize discomfort.

You may feel:

• Mild cramping
• A brief pressure sensation

These sensations typically resolve quickly, and you can usually return to your normal activities after you leave the procedure.

How long does it take? 

The insemination itself usually takes only a few minutes.

From start to finish, your appointment often lasts between 15 – 30 minutes, including preparation and a short rest period afterward.

Many clinics ask you to remain lying down for 5 – 10 minutes after the procedure. This gives you time to relax before getting dressed and continuing your day. There’s no recovery period required.

Ask your OB-GYN about FemaSeed

If FemaSeed sounds like something you’d like to explore, it can help to go into your appointment prepared with a few specific questions and talking points.

You could ask your OB-GYN or fertility specialist:

• “Could FemaSeed be a good fit for my fertility history and goals?”
• “Do you currently offer the procedure, or can you refer me to a practice that does?”
• “How does FemaSeed compare to traditional IUI in situations like mine?”
• “Would I need medication alongside the procedure, or could it work with my natural cycle?”
• “What are the next steps if I want to explore this option further?”

It can also help to explain why you’re interested in it specifically. For many patients, the appeal is that FemaSeed is designed to be:

• Less invasive than IVF
• Quick and office-based
• A potential next step before moving to more intensive treatment

Bringing along information from the FemaSeed website can make the conversation easier too, especially if your OB-GYN isn’t yet familiar with the procedure.

Keen to know if FemaSeed is right for you? Visit the FemaSeed website for more detailed information to support your next steps, and use their Practice Locator to find a practice offering the procedure near you.

Want to get more answers from the Femasys team? Read this next: FemaSeed FAQs – from cost to success rates, these are the questions you’re asking