IVF vs IUI: Choosing the Right Fertility Treatment

When starting your fertility journey, the variety of treatments can be overwhelming. If you're exploring options to become a parent, it's important to understand the difference between IVF (in vitro fertilization) and IUI (intrauterine insemination). Each treatment offers unique benefits and costs depending on your specific needs.

In this blog, we will explain IVF vs IUI, discuss the benefits, differences, success rates and costs of each, and help you make an informed decision. If you are looking for guidance and support, this blog is your first step towards understanding these fertility treatments and deciding which is best suited for you.

What Is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?

IVF or in vitro fertilization is a fertility treatment in which eggs are fertilized with sperm outside the body in a laboratory. Once fertilized, the embryos are transferred to the uterus to grow naturally. IVF is a more advanced procedure that is often recommended for the following:

• Blocked fallopian tubes

• Severe male infertility

• Repeated failed IUI attempts

• Older maternal age

The IVF Process

1. Ovarian Stimulation: Medications are given to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

2. Egg Retrieval: The eggs are collected from the ovaries through a minor surgical procedure.

3. Fertilization: The eggs are fertilized with sperm in the laboratory.

4. Embryo Transfer: The fertilized embryo is transferred to the uterus.

5. Pregnancy Test: After two weeks the pregnancy is confirmed by a test.

Benefits of IVF

• The success rate is higher than that of IUI.

• Option to test embryos for genetic disorders.

• Suitable for complex fertility problems.

What Is IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)?

IUI is a simple fertility treatment in which sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation. This reduces the distance the sperm has to travel to reach the egg, increasing the chances of fertilization.

When Is IUI Recommended?

• Unexplained infertility

• Mild male infertility

• Women under the age of 35 with healthy egg reserves

• Couples looking for less invasive options

The IUI Process

1. Ovulation Monitoring: Your menstrual cycle is tracked to determine the best time to conceive.

2. Sperm Preparation: The sperm is washed and concentrated in the laboratory to improve the quality.

3. Insemination: The prepared sperm is placed in the uterus using a thin catheter.

4. Follow-Up: A pregnancy test is done after two weeks.

Benefits of IUI

• Less invasive and more affordable than IVF.

• There is no surgical procedure involved.

• A good starting point for unexplained infertility.

IVF vs. IUI: Key Differences

Factor	IVF	IUI
Procedure	Fertilization of the egg outside the body	the sperm is placed directly into the uterus
Invasiveness	more invasive (requires surgery)	Minimally invasive
Cost	Higher (varies between ₹1,50,000–₹2,50,000)	Lower (₹10,000–₹25,000 per cycle)
Success Rate	40–60% per cycle (varies by age)	10–20% per cycle
Suitability	Complex infertility cases	mild infertility or unexplained problems

How to Decide Between IVF and IUI?

Choosing between IVF and IUI depends on several factors:

• Age: Women over the age of 35 may benefit more from IVF due to a decline in egg quality.

• Cause of Infertility: For severe conditions, IVF is often more effective.

• Budget: IUI is more affordable, but may require multiple cycles.

• Medical Advice: Consult a fertility specialist to evaluate your specific needs.

Cost Comparison: IUI vs IVF

It is important to understand the financial aspect when deciding between treatments.

IUI Cost in Srinagar

IUI is an affordable option, with each cycle costing between ₹10,000-₹25,000. However, multiple cycles may be required for success, increasing the overall cost.

IVF Cost in Srinagar

IVF is more expensive, costing ₹1,50,000 to ₹2,50,000 per cycle. Advanced options such as genetic testing or donor eggs can increase the cost.

IVF vs IUI: Success Rates

• The success rate of IVF ranges from 40-60%, depending on age and medical conditions.

• IUI has a success rate of 10-20% and may require several attempts.

Factors That Impact Success Rates:

1. Age: Young women generally have higher success rates for both IVF and IUI.

2. Medical Conditions: Conditions such as PCOS or low sperm count affect success.

3. Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle improves results.

When to Choose IVF Over IUI?

• If you have tried IUI several times but have not been successful.

• If you have serious fertility problems such as damaged fallopian tubes or male infertility.

• If there is a concern about time due to the mother's old age.

When to Choose IUI Over IVF?

• If you are below 35 years of age and do not have any major fertility problems.

• If your infertility is unexplained or due to minor reasons.

• If budget constraints are significant.

Finding the Best Fertility Treatment in Srinagar

Choosing between IVF and IUI is a personal decision influenced by medical, financial and emotional factors. At the best IVF centre in Srinagar, we offer personalised care, advanced treatment and expert guidance to help you become a parent.

Final Thoughts

Both IVF and IUI are effective fertility treatments, but their suitability depends on your specific situation. While IUI is less invasive and budget-friendly, IVF offers higher success rates for uncomplicated cases.

If you need help deciding which path to take, our fertility specialists in Srinagar can provide you with personalized recommendations to help you realize your dream of becoming a parent.