Infertility can be a challenging journey, but advancements in reproductive medicine offer hope to couples dreaming of parenthood. Two of the most common fertility treatments are Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). While both aim to achieve pregnancy, they differ in process, success rates, and suitability for different fertility conditions. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision on the best treatment for you.

What is IUI?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a less invasive and more affordable fertility treatment where washed and concentrated sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation. This process increases the chances of fertilization by bringing sperm closer to the egg.

Who is IUI Suitable For?

IUI is recommended for:
✔️ Unexplained infertility
✔️ Mild male infertility (low sperm motility or count)
✔️ Cervical mucus issues preventing sperm movement
✔️ Couples using donor sperm
✔️ Mild endometriosis

IUI Process

1️⃣ Ovulation Induction – Medications may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation.
2️⃣ Follicular Monitoring – Tracking the menstrual cycle through ultrasound and blood tests.
3️⃣ Sperm Preparation – Semen is processed to separate healthy sperm from dead sperm and debris.
4️⃣ Sperm Insertion – The sperm is inserted directly into the uterus via a thin catheter.
5️⃣ Pregnancy Test – After two weeks, a blood test confirms pregnancy.

Success Rates of IUI

🔹 IUI success rates range from 10% to 20% per cycle, depending on factors such as age, fertility diagnosis, and sperm quality.

What is IVF?

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a more advanced fertility treatment where eggs and sperm are combined outside the body in a laboratory. A fertilized embryo is then transferred into the uterus. IVF offers higher success rates and is ideal for couples facing more complex fertility issues.

Who is IVF Suitable For?

IVF is recommended for:
✔️ Severe male infertility (low sperm count or poor motility)
✔️ Blocked fallopian tubes or tubal damage
✔️ Endometriosis-related infertility
✔️ Advanced maternal age (35+)
✔️ Unsuccessful IUI cycles
✔️ Genetic disorders requiring embryo screening

IVF Process

1️⃣ Ovarian Stimulation – Fertility medications stimulate multiple egg development.
2️⃣ Egg Retrieval – Mature eggs are collected from the ovaries.
3️⃣ Fertilization in the Lab – Eggs and sperm are combined for fertilization.
4️⃣ Embryo Development – The fertilized egg (embryo) is monitored for 3-5 days.
5️⃣ Embryo Transfer – A healthy embryo is placed in the uterus.
6️⃣ Pregnancy Test – A blood test after 10-14 days confirms pregnancy.

Success Rates of IVF

🔹 IVF success rates vary between 40% to 60% per cycle, depending on the woman’s age, egg quality, and overall reproductive health.