The Impregnator applicator takes a fundamentally different approach to ICI device design compared to catheter-based systems, incorporating a cervical cup retention mechanism that holds the sperm sample against the os for an extended dwell period. This design philosophy prioritizes maximizing sperm-cervix contact time over precision placement, making it a compelling option for users working with lower-motility samples where passive diffusion into the cervical canal may compensate for reduced active swimming ability.
Design Architecture of the Impregnator
The Impregnator consists of two primary components: a 5mL syringe barrel with a flexible silicone delivery tip, and a separately insertable cervical cup that attaches to the cervix via mild suction. The cup is manufactured from platinum-cured medical-grade silicone, measuring 38mm in diameter for the standard size and 32mm for the smaller size. Once inserted, the cup sits at the top of the vaginal canal and creates a sealed environment around the external cervical os.
Sample delivery is accomplished by first inserting the cervical cup, then introducing the syringe tip through the cup’s central opening to deposit the sample. After delivery, the syringe is withdrawn while the cup remains in place, retaining the sample against the os. The cup can be worn for up to 60 minutes before removal, providing a significantly longer sperm-cervix contact window than standard syringe-and-catheter ICI.
Performance with Low-Motility and Partner Sperm
The extended contact time facilitated by the cervical cup is most clinically relevant for samples where progressive motility is below the WHO threshold of 32% or total motility is below 40%. In these cases, active sperm transport to and through the cervical os is impaired, and a longer dwell period at the os creates more opportunity for even slow-moving or non-progressively motile sperm to enter the canal. The cup effectively transforms an ICI procedure into something closer to a prolonged cervical cap insemination.
For fresh partner sperm with normal motility parameters (>50% progressive motility), the Impregnator’s cup retention system offers less marginal benefit over a well-placed standard catheter. In those cases, the added complexity of cup insertion may not be justified. However, for male factor subfertility cases, the Impregnator represents a meaningful design differentiation.
Insertion Technique and Learning Curve
Inserting the cervical cup correctly is more technically demanding than using a standard syringe catheter, as the cup must be folded (similar to a menstrual disc), inserted past the pubic bone, and released to create suction around the cervix. Users who are unfamiliar with menstrual cup insertion will face a steeper learning curve, and practice insertion sessions without a sample are strongly recommended. Incorrect cup placement — sitting in the mid-vaginal canal rather than against the cervix — results in sample retention away from the os, negating the device’s primary advantage.
The manufacturer provides a sizing guide based on pelvic measurements and birthing history to help users select the correct cup size. An ill-fitting cup will not form an adequate seal and may leak the sample before the dwell period is complete.
Overall Assessment and Recommended User Profile
The Impregnator is the most specialized device in the MakeAmom lineup and is best suited for users dealing with confirmed low-motility sperm or those who have had unsuccessful ICI cycles with standard catheter-based devices and want to try a different approach. Its reusable silicone construction and included cleaning protocol make it cost-effective over multiple cycles. Users with normal-motility samples who prioritize simplicity will be better served by the Babymaker or a standard luer-lock syringe with a soft catheter.
For a complete at-home insemination solution, the MakeAmom Impregnator Kit includes everything you need for a properly timed, sterile ICI cycle.
Further reading across our network: MakeAmom.com · IntracervicalInseminationKit.info · IntracervicalInseminationSyringe.info
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your fertility care.