Understanding IVF and IUI: A Guide for Couples Struggling with Infertility
For couples facing difficulty in conceiving, choosing the right fertility treatment is a crucial decision. While both In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) are effective fertility treatments, they differ in terms of process, success rates, costs, and medical suitability.
At Gulmohar IVF, Panchkula, we understand the emotional and medical challenges of infertility and are here to help you make an informed decision. In this article, weāll explain:
āļø The key differences between IVF and IUI
āļø Who is the right candidate for each treatment
āļø Success rates and cost comparison
š” Related Read: New to fertility treatments? Learn about the Best IVF Center in Panchkula: Treatments & Success Rates.
What is IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)?
IUI is a less invasive and more affordable fertility treatment where sperm is directly placed into the uterus around the time of ovulation.
How IUI Works:
1ļøā£ Ovulation-inducing medications may be prescribed.
2ļøā£ Sperm is collected and washed to concentrate healthy sperm.
3ļøā£ A thin catheter is used to insert sperm into the uterus.
4ļøā£ The fertilization process happens naturally inside the body.
Who is IUI Best For?
āļø Mild male infertility (low sperm count or motility)
āļø Unexplained infertility (when no clear cause is found)
āļø Cervical mucus issues that prevent sperm from reaching the egg
āļø Couples looking for a lower-cost fertility option
š” Related Read: Wondering if your infertility is treatable? Read Common Causes of Infertility & When to Seek a Specialist.
What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?
IVF is a more advanced fertility treatment where fertilization happens outside the body in a controlled lab environment.
How IVF Works:
1ļøā£ Ovarian Stimulation: Hormonal injections stimulate egg production.
2ļøā£ Egg Retrieval: Mature eggs are collected from the ovaries.
3ļøā£ Sperm Collection & Fertilization: Sperm is combined with the eggs in a lab.
4ļøā£ Embryo Transfer: The best embryo is transferred into the uterus.
Who is IVF Best For?
āļø Blocked fallopian tubes
āļø Severe male infertility (low sperm count, motility issues)
āļø Endometriosis-related infertility
āļø Unsuccessful IUI attempts
āļø Older women (above 35) with lower egg reserves
š” Related Read: Learn about Success Factors in IVF: Lifestyle, Age & Medical Factors.
IVF vs. IUI: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | IUI | IVF |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure Type | Less invasive, sperm inserted directly into uterus | Eggs retrieved, fertilized in lab, and embryo implanted |
| Success Rate | 10-20% per cycle (varies by age) | 40-60% per cycle (higher success rate) |
| Best for | Mild male infertility, unexplained infertility | Blocked tubes, severe infertility, failed IUI |
| Cost | Lower (ā¹10,000 – ā¹20,000 per cycle) | Higher (ā¹1.2 – ā¹1.8 lakh per cycle) |
| Time Taken | 10-15 days per cycle | 4-6 weeks per cycle |
| Risks | Low, but lower success rates | Slightly invasive, higher success rates |
š” Related Read: Want to know about the cost? Check our article on Cost of IVF Treatment in Panchkula: What to Expect.
Which Treatment is Right for You?
Choose IUI If:
āļø Youāre below 35 years old with mild infertility issues.
āļø You want a low-cost, less invasive treatment as a first option.
āļø You have unexplained infertility but normal ovarian function.
Choose IVF If:
āļø You have been trying for a baby for more than 2 years without success.
āļø You have blocked fallopian tubes or severe sperm abnormalities.
āļø You have PCOS, endometriosis, or age-related infertility.
āļø You have undergone failed IUI cycles and need a more advanced solution.
š” Still Confused? Speak to an expert at Gulmohar IVF, Panchkula for a personalized consultation.
FAQ Section: IVF vs. IUI
1. Is IUI less successful than IVF?
Yes. IUI success rates are around 10-20% per cycle, while IVF success rates can go up to 60% per cycle, depending on the patientās age and health condition.
2. Which is cheaper: IVF or IUI?
IUI is more affordable, costing ā¹10,000-ā¹20,000 per cycle, while IVF is costlier at ā¹1.2 – ā¹1.8 lakh per cycle.
3. How many IUI cycles should I try before moving to IVF?
Doctors usually recommend 3-6 IUI cycles. If there is no success, IVF is the next best option.
4. Can I use donor sperm in IUI or IVF?
Yes, both treatments can be performed using donor sperm if the male partner has severe infertility issues.
Final Thoughts: IVF or IUI ā Which One Should You Choose?
The right fertility treatment depends on your medical history, age, and infertility cause. While IUI is a simpler, less expensive option, IVF offers higher success rates and is better for complex infertility cases.
At Gulmohar IVF & Fertility Centre in Panchkula, Dr. Renu Lamba and her expert team offer compassionate, customized careāfrom diagnostics to advanced ART procedures like IVF, ICSI, and IUI
š Take the First Step Toward Parenthood
Whether you’re just starting to explore your fertility or you’ve been trying for years, weāre here for you.
š Book Your Consultation Now
š Call Us: 91 9780 355 355
š Visit: www.gulmoharivf.com
š Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, consult a qualified fertility specialist.
