When it comes to trying to build your family, you may have heard a lot about two common treatment options: intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Both treatments help people get pregnant, but there are some key differences in how they work and their success rates.. Knowing about these differences can help you talk to your provider about what option may be the best fit for you.
What is IUI?
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) allows physicians to place sperm directly into a patient’s uterine cavity during the optimal time of ovulation.
How IUI Works:
- Stimulate Egg Growth: Patients will be prescribed oral or subcutaneous injectable medications to stimulate the growth and maturation of their eggs.
- Ovulation Monitoring: Before the procedure, your doctor will monitor your ovulation cycle closely. This might involve blood tests and ultrasounds to determine the best time for insemination.
- Sperm Collection and Preparation: Sperm is collected, usually from a partner or a donor, and then “washed” in a lab to concentrate the healthiest sperm by removing debris, immobile sperm and substances in semen that could cause severe cramping.
- Insemination: Using a thin catheter, the prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus. The procedure is relatively quick and painless, often taking just a few minutes.
Who Might Consider IUI?
- Couples with mild male infertility (such as low sperm count or motility).
- Women with ovulation issues who can still produce healthy eggs.
- Those with unexplained infertility.
- Same-sex couples or single women using donor sperm.
- Semen allergy
- Endometriosis-related infertility
- Cervical and ovulatory factor infertility
Success Rates and Considerations: On average, success rates for IUI range from 10% to 20% per cycle, depending on the patient’s age, diagnosis, and treatment plan.
What is IVF?
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology (ART). IVF is the process of fertilization by extracting eggs, obtaining a sperm sample, and then combining an egg and sperm in a laboratory dish. The embryo is then transferred to the uterus.
How IVF Works:
- Ovarian Stimulation: Over a period of 9-12 days, we will stimulate your ovaries with self-administered injections. You will also have approximately 5 to 7 early morning monitoring appointments.
- Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved from the ovaries using a minor surgical procedure. The painless procedure will take 10-20 minutes and you will be under twilight anesthesia.
- Fertilization: In our state-of-the-art laboratory, our highly experienced embryologists will oversee the process of the sperm fertilizing the egg either by mixing them together or using Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg.
- Embryo Growth: Over a 3 to 7 day process, our embryologists oversee the growth of your embryo(s). Some patients will benefit from non-invasive preimplantation genetic testing after this step of the process.
- Embryo Transfer: During embryo transfer your doctor will insert a speculum into the patient’s vagina and then using an ultrasound for accuracy, they will then pass a catheter through the cervix and into the uterus. The embryos are then passed through the tube during this short, pain free procedure.
Who Might Consider IVF?
- Women with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes.
- Couples with severe male infertility.
- Those who haven’t had success with other treatments , like IUI.
- Individuals using donor eggs and/or sperm, or those needing genetic screening.
- Previous tubal sterilization or removal
- Genetic disorders
- Fertility preservation for cancer or other health conditions
Success Rates and Considerations: IVF has higher success rates than IUI, especially for women under 35, with success rates ranging from 40% to 50% per cycle.
IUI vs. IVF: Which Should You Choose?
The choice between IUI and IVF depends on several factors, such as your age, diagnosis, financial situation, and personal preferences. IUI is often recommended initially for individuals with less severe fertility issues, while IVF is typically advised for those facing more complex challenges or after other treatments have been unsuccessful.
It’s important to carefully consider whether IUI or IVF is the right choice for you, and it’s best to make this decision in consultation with your fertility specialist. Understanding the differences between the two options will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and goals. If you have any questions or are ready to begin your fertility journey, please schedule a consultation today.
