Treatment choices

IUI or IVF: how are they different?

IUI and IVF are different assisted-reproduction approaches. The right option depends on the cause of infertility, age, sperm factors, tubal health, previous treatment and personal priorities. Comparing them is more useful than assuming one is always the 'better' treatment.

What happens with IUI?

With intrauterine insemination (IUI), prepared sperm is placed in the uterus close to ovulation. Fertilisation, if it occurs, generally happens in a fallopian tube. Some IUI cycles involve medication and ultrasound monitoring; others differ according to the plan. Open fallopian tubes and other individual factors may affect whether it is suitable. IUI does not involve egg retrieval or laboratory fertilisation.

What happens with IVF?

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) usually involves ovarian stimulation and monitoring, collecting eggs, fertilising them in a laboratory and considering embryo transfer or freezing. It involves more appointments and procedures than IUI. IVF may be discussed for blocked tubes, certain sperm factors, endometriosis or after other treatments have not worked, but it is not automatically necessary for everyone.

What should guide the decision?

Ask about expected steps, costs, medication, risks, time away from work and the number of cycles you might consider. Request an individual discussion of likely outcomes rather than relying on an advertised success percentage: definitions of success and patient groups vary. If the recommended plan changes after testing, ask what new information prompted that change.

Can IUI be tried before IVF?

Sometimes, but not in every situation. Your clinician can explain whether factors such as tubal disease or sperm findings make IUI less appropriate for you.

For general education only. This page is not a diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Discuss decisions with a qualified clinician. For urgent symptoms, seek urgent medical care.