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IUI vs IVF: What’s The Difference?

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Inception Fertility

Two of the most commonly recommended fertility treatments are In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). While both aim to help individuals and couples achieve pregnancy, they differ significantly in their procedures, success rates, costs, and suitability for different fertility issues. Here's a detailed look at the key differences between IVF and IUI. 

What is IVF? 

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a complex process in which embryos are created outside of the body and then transferred to the uterus to assist with the conception of a child. IVF involves the following steps: 

  1. Ovarian Stimulation: Hormonal medications are administered to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. 

  1. Egg Retrieval: The eggs are collected from the ovaries using a minor surgical procedure. 

  1. Fertilization: The eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting either by conventional insemination or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). 

  1. Embryo Culture: The fertilized eggs (embryos) are cultured in the lab for a few days. 

  1. Embryo Transfer: For fresh embryo transfers, an embryo will be transferred to the uterus with the hope of implantation and pregnancy. For frozen embryo transfers, embryos will be cryopreserved until you are ready for your transfer. 

What is IUI? 

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a simpler and less invasive fertility treatment compared to IVF. The IUI process includes: 

  1. Ovarian Stimulation (optional): Inseminations can be done during a patient’s natural menstrual cycle. Some treatments may include the use of hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries. 

  1. Semen Collection and Preparation: A semen sample is collected and specially washed to concentrate the sperm. 

  1. Insemination: The prepared sperm is directly inserted into the uterus using a thin catheter during the ovulation period. 

Key Differences Between IVF and IUI 

1. Complexity and Invasiveness: 

  • IVF: Highly complex and involves multiple steps, including minor surgery for egg retrieval. 

  • IUI: Simpler and less invasive, typically involving only a basic procedure similar to a pap smear. 

2. Success Rates: 

  • IVF: Generally, has higher positive pregnancy success rates compared to IUI, especially for certain fertility issues like blocked fallopian tubes or severe male factor infertility. 

  • IUI: Success rates are lower and more dependent on the specific fertility issues being treated. 

3. Cost: 

  • IVF: More expensive due to the complexity of the procedure and the laboratory work involved.  

  • IUI: Less costly than IVF cycles. 

4. Suitability for Different Fertility Issues: 

  • IVF: Suitable for a wider range of fertility problems, including severe male infertility, blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, endometriosis, and unexplained infertility. 

  • IUI: Often recommended for poor sperm motility, abnormal mucus/sperm interactions, low sperm count, or ovulatory disorders. 

5. Treatment Duration: 

  • IVF: Each cycle takes about 4-6 weeks from the start of ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer. 

  • IUI: Each cycle is shorter, typically aligning with the woman’s natural ovulation cycle. 

6. Risk of Multiple Pregnancies: 

  • IVF: Minimizes risk of multiple pregnancies during treatment. 

  • IUI: Presents an elevated risk or twins or more, especially when using injectable hormones. 

7. Genetic Testing 

  • IVF: Offers the possibility to test embryos for genetic conditions with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT).  

  • IUI: IUI doesn’t provide the option to test embryos for genetic conditions.  

 

8. Donor/Surrogacy Options 

  • IVF: Provides the flexibility of using donor eggs, sperm, or embryos. Surrogacy is also an option with IVF.  

  • IUI: Limited to using donor sperm.  

 

9. Family Planning 

  • IVF: Opportunity to freeze embryos for future, giving you control over your family planning.  

  • IUI: Does not provide the option for future pregnancy planning. 

 

Conclusion 

The choice between IVF and IUI depends on various factors, including the underlying cause of infertility, the woman's age, previous fertility treatment outcomes, and personal preferences. 

 

The fertility specialists at IVFMD are happy to discuss which treatment is best for you and create a personalized plan based on your needs.  Schedule a consultation to learn more about your and start your journey toward parenthood. 

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