IVF or IUI? Choosing the Right Fertility Treatment for You

Struggling with infertility? You’re not alone; 1 in 6 people around the globe face it. With the rise of assisted reproductive technologies, treatments like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) have become common solutions. However, choosing the right fertility treatment can be overwhelming. Read on to learn about the differences between IVF and IUI, helping you decide which is best suited for your needs and fertility journey.

What Is IUI?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a comparatively simple and less invasive fertility treatment. In this procedure, processed semen is directly inserted into the uterus during/post ovulation, increasing the chances of fertilisation. The semen sample is processed and concentrated before being placed into the uterus using a catheter. This is timed around the woman's ovulation to increase the likelihood of conception.

Best suited for:

• Mild male infertility
• Cervical issues
• Unexplained infertility

What Is IVF?

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is a more complex and invasive fertility treatment that involves fertilising an egg outside the body. This process can help couples with more severe infertility issues.

How IVF Works:

Ovarian Stimulation: The first step involves stimulating the ovaries using hormone injections for about 10–14 days to encourage the production of multiple eggs. These injections typically contain FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) to help the ovaries produce several mature eggs.

Trigger Injections: Once the eggs are mature, a trigger injection (usually containing hCG, human chorionic gonadotropin) is administered to trigger ovulation, signaling the eggs to be ready for retrieval.

Egg Retrieval (Aspiration): This is a minor surgical procedure performed under sedation, where eggs are collected from the ovaries using a thin needle that is inserted through the vaginal wall. The procedure usually takes 20-30 minutes.

Fertilisation: The retrieved eggs are then fertilised in the lab with sperm from the partner or a donor. Fertilisation can occur through conventional insemination or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), where a single sperm is injected directly into each egg.

Embryo Culture: After fertilisation, the embryos are cultured in an incubator for 3–5 days to allow them to develop. During this period, embryologists monitor their growth and select the best quality embryos for transfer.

Embryo Transfer: The selected embryo(s) are transferred into the woman’s uterus using a thin catheter. This is a non-surgical procedure that is typically painless, although some women may experience mild cramping.

Ideal for:

• Blocked fallopian tubes
• Severe male infertility
• Women over 35
• Failed IUI attempts or advanced maternal age
• Low ovarian reserve

IVF offers a higher success rate, especially in complex fertility cases, but is more invasive and expensive compared to IUI.

For more details about the different types of IVF treatments available in India and how they differ, check out this blog: What Are the Different Types of IVF Treatments Available in India?

Success Rates: What the Numbers Say

Success rates for IVF vs IUI vary depending on factors such as age, health, and specific fertility issues. On average:

• IUI success rates range from 10% to 15% for women under 35 years.
• IVF success rates range from 30% to 45%, depending on age, egg quality, and overall fertility health.

Fertility evaluations will play a key role in determining the right treatment for you.

When Should You Choose IUI Over IVF?

IUI is generally the first choice for couples with minor fertility issues. It’s ideal for:

• Couples with mild male infertility or cervical problems
• Younger women with a good ovarian reserve
• Couples with unexplained infertility

If IUI fails after 3–4 cycles, your doctor might recommend moving to IVF. For a detailed fertility evaluation, you can explore Prerana Hospital’s Fertility Evaluation Service.

When IVF Becomes the Right Choice

IVF is recommended when less invasive treatments like IUI are unlikely to succeed. It’s particularly suitable for:

• Women over 35
• Tubal blockages or endometriosis
• Severe male infertility (low sperm count or motility)
• Failed IUI attempts
• Low ovarian reserve

Financial & Emotional Considerations

The cost difference between IVF and IUI is significant. While IUI is generally more affordable, IVF can cost several times more due to its complexity. Aside from financial considerations, it’s important to acknowledge the emotional strain of fertility treatments. IVF, with its longer process and more intensive procedures, can be emotionally taxing.

The Takeaways

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to fertility treatments. The decision between IUI and IVF depends on individual factors like fertility health, age, and financial considerations. A personalised fertility assessment is crucial in determining the best course of action. If you're considering your fertility treatment options, the best course of action is to start with a consultation with a fertility expert to explore which treatment might be the best for you.