IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) and IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) are two most popular reproductive treatments that are helping people experience parenthood. But not both treatments are suitable for everyone. Of course, your gynaecologist will help you determine the right treatment – IUI vs IVF, a little knowledge always helps.
What is the difference between the two treatment options, and which will be the best for you? Keep reading as we outline what they are, who these options are right for, and how to determine where to start.
What are IUI and IVF?
Let’s start with the basics!
For the unversed, IUI is an artificial insemination procedure. The doctor inserts a previously collected and processed sperm into the uterine cavity. This process is performed with other fertility treatments to boost ovulation function. Moreover, the sperm is placed deeper into the uterine cavity. This way, it bypasses the cervix and enhances the chances of sperm meeting the egg. In case of severe male infertility, you can also consider going for reliable sperm donors in India.
On the other hand, IVF is an advanced combination of surgical procedures and medications to fertilise an egg and assist its implantation in the uterus. Initially, a medication course is prescribed to help mature eggs and prepare them for fertilisation. These eggs are then taken out of the body and mixed with sperm in a lab.
Once the eggs are fertilised, they are placed into the uterus through a surgical procedure. Please understand that IVF is a multi-dimensional procedure that can take several months to complete. However, it is an incredible treatment that can positively increase the chances of pregnancy.
What’s the Difference Between IUI and IVF?
Here are the major differences between the two fertility treatments.
Fertilisation Process
The fertilisation in IUI takes place internally, as the sperm is directly injected into the uterus. On the other hand, fertilisation in IVF takes place externally. The egg and sperm are combined, and the fertilised eggs are placed back into the uterus, resulting in pregnancy.
Success Rate
Are you wondering about the IUI Vs. IVF success rate? We got you covered. The Individual IUI success rate ranges from 15% to 20%. Reputed gynaecologist recommend two to four rounds, making a cumulative success rate of 40% to 50%. The IVF success rate depends upon the factors like ovarian reserve, age, and the cause of infertility. On average, a single IVF round has a success rate of 50% to 75%.
Side Effects
IUI and IVF have common side effects like a natural pregnancy. An unmedicated IUI usually has no virtual side effects. However, medicated IUI can lead to temporary mild symptoms like hot flashes, nausea, etc., in some patients. Moreover, around one-third of patients can experience similar symptoms in IVF. All the side effects usually resolve within a few days.
Chances of Multiples
The chances of having multiples like twins, triplets, etc., are quite high in an injectable medicated IUI cycle. This is because the doctors here have less control over the number of eggs released and fertilised. Moreover, a single embryo is transferred in IVF, which decreases the chances of having multiples significantly.
Cost of the treatment
IUI is comparatively an affordable option with a decent success rate. Younger women with no severe fertilisation issues can consider going for IUI first. Moreover, IVF is an expensive treatment option with an impressive success rate. It helps women of different ages to conceive and deliver healthy babies. Consider consulting an expert to know more about IUI Vs. IVF price.
Invasiveness
Experts recommend IUI for patients who prefer less invasive and painful fertility treatment options first. On the other hand, IVF is the ideal option for women who have gone through unsuccessful IUI rounds earlier.
Suitability
IUI is suitable for an average couple finding it difficult to conceive. It is usually the first step towards a healthy conception. In comparison, IVF is an advanced treatment option recommended as the second step after IUI. It is also a suitable option for older women with conceiving problems. You can discuss with your doctor which is better, IUI Vs. IVF over 40.
Which one is Right for You?
IUI Vs IVF: Which is right for you? If you are trying to decode the answer, the first expert to consult is the top gynaecologists in Mohali. They have the expertise and experience to help you select the best treatment.
Ideally, the cause of infertility will help determine which treatment option will be right for you. There can be several issues like abnormal sperm, irregular ovulation, blocked fallopian tubes, etc. Moreover, your personal health history, current health conditions, and family health history will also play a vital role in deciding the right option for you.
Meanwhile, here are the common suggestions given by experienced gynaecologists in such cases.
When to go for IUI
Gyneacologists will likely recommend IUI to women with unexplained infertility. In other words, when the cause of infertility remains unidentified, IUI can be the right treatment for you. It is affordable, less invasive, and, ideally, a promising first step towards artificial conceiving.
When to go for IVF
Experienced gynaecologists can recommend moving to IVF after having two to four unsuccessful IUI rounds. In some cases, like, severe male-factor infertility, multiple miscarriages, endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, etc., doctors can directly recommend IVF. Moreover, it is also a good option if you intend to get pregnant in your late 30s.
Final thoughts
So, it was all about the two of the most successful fertility treatments – IUI vs IVF. Both procedures are known to offer impressive results. However, the chances of conceiving and delivering healthy babies are higher in IVF. The best part is that, unlike IUI, IVF is a single-cycle procedure. It also significantly decreases the chances of miscarriage and gives you complete control over timing.
So, consult the city’s top gynaecologists to understand both treatments’ pros and cons. Besides recommending the best between IUI and IVF, they can also play a vital role in managing the present and probable health complications.
