IUI vs. IVF – Which fertility treatment is right for you?
If you’re weighing up your options between IUI and IVF, it’s essential to understand how they differ in process, cost, and success rates. Our guide breaks it all down to help you make the best choice for your fertility journey.
Anne Petersen
IUI (intrauterine insemination) and IVF (in vitro fertilisation) are common types of fertility treatment, but they differ in terms of process, cost and success rate. This guide gives you an overview of the differences so you can get a better understanding of whether IUI or IVF is the right choice for you.
What is IUI?
IUI treatment is a type of artificial insemination where sperm is placed directly into the uterus around ovulation to increase the chances of fertilisation. The IUI procedure is less invasive and more cost-effective than IVF.
Who is IUI recommended for?
IUI is often the first-line fertility treatment for:
- Single women or same-sex couples using donor sperm
- Couples in the early stages of fertility treatment
- Women with mild fertility challenges
What is IVF?
IVF is a more complex fertility treatment where eggs are retrieved and fertilised with sperm in a lab to create embryos. One or more embryos are then transferred into the uterus. IVF is more invasive than IUI but has higher success rates.
Who is IVF recommended for?
IVF is commonly recommended for:
- Couples or women facing fertility challenges such as blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis or PCOS.
- Couples who have had multiple failed IUI attempts
- Couples and solo mums needing donor sperm or donor eggs to start a family.
Key differences between IUI and IVF
| Factor | IUI | IVF |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy rate | 5–15% per cycle | 17–40% per cycle |
| Procedure | Sperm is placed directly into the uterus | Eggs are retrieved, fertilised and transferred to the uterus |
| Cost* | €200–€1800 per cycle | €2000–€10000 per cycle |
| Time required | 10–20 days per cycle | 3–6 weeks per cycle |
| Best for | Donor sperm use, early days of fertility treatment | Fertility challenges, multiple failed IUIs, older age |
*Sources: NHS, Total Fertility, MVZ Fertility Center Hamburg, Nij Geertgen and Trianglen Fertility Clinic.
IUI vs IVF - success rate
IUI and IVF have different success rates, but it is important to remember that the chances of success depend on your particular situation.
What is the success rate of IUI?
IUI success rates (pregnancy rate) typically range from 5-15% per cycle, depending on factors like age and overall health. Younger women, especially those under 35, tend to have higher success rates, while chances decrease with age. Since pregnancy may not happen on the first try, women and couples undergoing IUI are often recommended to attempt multiple cycles.
It's important to remember that these success rates are often based on studies with infertile couples. It doesn't say much about success rates for younger women who are not infertile but are single or in a same-sex relationship.
What is the success rate of IVF?
IVF generally has higher success rates, ranging from 17-40% per cycle. Again, this depends on factors such as age and egg and sperm quality. Women under the age of 35 have the highest success rate. This rate decreases after the age of 40.
Read more about IVF success rates.
When to move from IUI to IVF
Doctors and clinics often recommend starting IVF after 3-6 failed IUI cycles, especially if you are over 35 years old.
Choosing between IUI and IVF: Which one is right for you?
Many things can influence which type of treatment is right for you and your situation.
Factors to consider
- Success rates: IVF is more effective, but IUI is less invasive.
- Cost: IUI is significantly cheaper, making it an accessible first option.
- Medical history: Fertility challenges may require IVF.
- Treatment procedure: IVF is a longer, more complex process.
Personalised guidance from fertility specialists
Consulting your doctor or a fertility clinic is the best way to determine whether IUI or IVF is right for you.
Conclusion
Choosing between IUI and IVF depends on your age, health, medical history and budget. IUI is a simpler, more affordable first step, while IVF offers higher success rates for more complex fertility challenges. It is always a good idea to talk to your doctor or clinic before choosing a treatment type. This way treatment can be tailored to your specific situation.
FAQ about IUI vs IVF
It depends on your situation. IUI is less invasive and more affordable, but IVF has higher success rates and is more effective for different fertility problems. If you have mild fertility challenges or are using donor sperm, IUI may be a good first option. If IUI hasn’t been successful after 3-6 cycles, or you have more complex fertility issues, IVF is usually recommended.
Yes, the chance of having twins increases if fertility medications are used during the IUI cycle, as they can stimulate the release of more than one egg. However, a non-medicated cycle of IUI has a very low chance of twins.
No, IUI is not 100% successful. Success rates range from 5-15% per cycle, depending on factors like age, fertility challenges and sperm quality. It is often recommended to have 3-6 cycles before considering IVF.
Most women experience little to no pain during the IUI procedure. You may feel some discomfort similar to menstrual cramping when the catheter is inserted, but this is typically mild and short-lived. The procedure itself only takes a few minutes.
