Definition of AID (artificial insemination by donor)

AID (artificial insemination by donor): A procedure in which a fine catheter (tube) is inserted through the cervix (the natural opening of the uterus) into the uterus (the womb) to deposit a sperm sample from a donor other than the woman's mate directly into the uterus. The purpose of this procedure is to achieve fertilization and pregnancy. AID is also called heterologous insemination. AID is distinguished from homologous insemination, that is artificial insemination by husband (AIH).