IUI vs. IVF – Which fertility treatment is right for you?

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

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.

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.

*Sources: NHS, Total Fertility, MVZ Fertility Center Hamburg, Nij Geertgen and Trianglen Fertility Clinic.

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.

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.

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.