IVF vs. IUI: Starting a family is a dream. But with fertility challenges, it seems impossible. Many couples discover they need medical help to get pregnant. There are two common treatments that the doctors recommend: IVF and IUI. Let’s get to know them better so that you can choose the right one.
What Is IUI?
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) uses artificial insemination. IUI helps sperm reach the egg more easily. During IUI, your doctor places carefully selected sperm directly into your uterus using a thin tube called a catheter.
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The process is usually performed during your most fertile time each month. Your doctor tracks your ovulation carefully. Sometimes they give you mild fertility drugs to help you release more eggs. The whole procedure takes just a few minutes and feels similar to a regular pelvic exam.
IUI works best for couples who have mild fertility problems. You might be a good candidate if your partner has a low sperm count or poor sperm movement. Women with cervical issues or unexplained fertility problems also benefit from IUI.
What Is IVF?
In IVF, or In Vitro Fertilization, embryos are created outside your body in a laboratory. The process has several steps that take about six to eight weeks.
As part of your IVF treatment, you’ll be given hormone medications that help your ovaries produce multiple eggs. Your doctor monitors you closely with blood tests and ultrasounds. When the eggs are ready, they remove them through a minor surgical procedure.
IVF experts then put your eggs with sperm in a lab dish and watch the fertilised embryos grow for several days. Once this is done, your doctor transfers one or more healthy embryos back into your uterus.
IVF is preferred for couples with more serious fertility issues. Your doctor will recommend IVF if your fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged. Women with severe endometriosis or genetic disorders, or who are older often choose IVF. Men with very low sperm counts can also opt for this treatment.
Key Differences Between IUI and IVF
The main difference between the treatments is how and where the fertilisation happens. In IUI, fertilisation occurs naturally inside your body. In IVF, embryos are created in a laboratory before placing them in your uterus.
There’s a huge difference between the cost of IUI and IVF. While IUI costs much less, IVF in certain cases is unavoidable but costly.
The success rates of both treatments are significantly different. IUI success rates range from 10% to 20% per cycle for most women. IVF success rates are higher, ranging from 30% to 50% per cycle, depending on your age and specific fertility issues.
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IVF vs. IUI: Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Your doctor will help you choose the best option based on your specific situation. They consider your age, fertility test results, and how long you’ve been trying to conceive. Most doctors recommend starting with IUI if you have mild fertility problems. It’s less invasive, cheaper, and has fewer side effects. If IUI doesn’t work after three to six cycles, you might move to IVF. IVF becomes the first choice when you have severe fertility issues that IUI cannot address. Your doctor will explain all your options and help you make the best decision for your family’s future.
