Parenthood is something that most couple aspires to. But some couples can face problems conceiving naturally even after being advised to use fertility drugs. That’s when they choose fertility treatments. IUI (Intrauterine insemination) or IVF (In-vitro fertilisation) are two of the most common procedures of fertility assistance. But, what is the right procedure for you – IUI vs IVF?
When you visit a fertility specialist for either of these treatments, you will be offered all possible information about both options. They will run a few tests, of course, and recommend the best option and inform about the IUI vs IVF success rates. Keep reading as we explore the comparison between the two.
IUI Treatment
In this procedure, the sperm sperm is placed directly into the uterus using a speculum or a small catheter. The purpose is to improve the chances of healthy sperm reaching the fallopian tubes. The procedure is usually performed when the woman is on her ovulation cycle. The speculum is inserted in the cervix first, after which a small tube designed for IUI is inserted. This is how the semen sample is placed into the uterus.
Once your ovulation window is determined, your partner will provide a sperm sample, or if you are using donor sperm, our andrologists will prepare the sperm sample provided by the third-party agency. We will then perform a special technique in the andrology laboratory called sperm washing to increase the concentration of sperm.
It is recommended for –
- Women suffering from conditions like endometriosis.
- Men with low sperm count or low sperm quality.
- Single women with the help of donor sperm.
- Same-sex couples
- Patients with unexplained infertility.
Advantages of IUI Treatment-
- Less invasive
- Comparing of IUI vs IVF cost, IUI is a lower cost alternative
IVF Process
This is a procedure where eggs are removed surgically from the ovaries. The eggs are then fertilised in a lab with sperm. The fertilised egg or the embryo is then placed back into the uterus.
IVF is a procedure that is advised when IUI or ovulation induction fails for the patient.
It is recommended for –
- Women whose reproductive systems have blocked fallopian tubes or whose tubes are completely absent.
- Women suffering from endometriosis.
- Patients with ovulatory dysfunction who have not been able to succeed with ovulation induction.
- Men with low sperm count
- Patients who want PGT or preimplantation genetic testing
IUI Vs IVF: Which is the Right Option For You?
IUI Treatment
IUI is generally advised by the doctor in the case of unexplained infertility. It is also advised that if the male partner has a condition called mild male-factor infertility.
Comparing IUI vs IVF costs, IUI costs less than IVF.
Compared to IVF, IUI is less invasive too.
IVF Process
IUI is usually recommended first. However, if this procedure fails after three or four trials, the doctor will generally recommend IVF. Sometimes, IUI may not be recommended at all; instead, the doctor will directly advise IVF. This is usually in the case of endometriosis, many episodes of miscarriages, blocked fallopian tubes that cannot be corrected, and severe male-factor infertility.
IVF is costlier than IUI.
It involves invasive procedures.
Comparing IUI vs IVF success rates, IVF usually has a higher success rate. However, the success rate is dependent on individual body specifics and cannot be generalised. Additionally, the patient’s age, prior history of pregnancy, ovarian reserve, and infertility reasons also have a significant impact on the success rate.
Speak with your doctor at length to decide the best course for your case.
Ref:
https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/iui-vs-ivf-which-is-right-for-you