When starting fertility treatment, one of the first decisions you'll face is: IUI or IVF? These two treatments have different indications, costs, and success rates. This guide will help you understand which is the right starting point for your situation.
What is IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)?
IUI is a relatively simple procedure where sperm is washed, concentrated, and placed directly into the uterus during ovulation. It bypasses the cervix and shortens the distance sperm needs to travel to reach the egg. The egg is still fertilised naturally inside the fallopian tube.
- Procedure duration: 5-10 minutes
- Performed in outpatient setting — no anaesthesia needed
- Can be done in a natural or stimulated cycle
- Success rate per cycle: 10-20%
- Typically tried for 3-4 cycles before considering IVF
What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)?
IVF is a more complex assisted reproduction technique where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the uterus.
- Requires ovarian stimulation injections (or Needleless IVF)
- Egg retrieval under mild sedation
- Embryo transferred 3-5 days after fertilisation
- Success rate per transfer: 40-60%+ (age-dependent)
- More complex, more expensive, but significantly more effective
IUI vs IVF — Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | IUI | IVF |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure complexity | Simple | Complex |
| Anaesthesia | None | Mild sedation |
| Success/cycle | 10–20% | 40–60% |
| Cost at Mother Hospitals | ₹8,000–₹15,000 | ₹99,000 (all-in) |
| Requires open tubes | Yes | No |
| Best for | Mild issues | Severe/multiple factors |
When is IUI Recommended?
- Unexplained infertility (no identified cause)
- Mild male factor infertility (low sperm count or motility)
- Irregular ovulation with otherwise normal anatomy
- Cervical factor infertility
- PCOS patients who ovulate with medication
- Both fallopian tubes confirmed open
When is IVF Recommended?
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Severe male factor infertility (azoospermia — TESA needed)
- Endometriosis affecting fertility
- Failed IUI after 3-4 cycles
- Advanced maternal age (over 38)
- Low ovarian reserve / Low AMH
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
- Previous IVF failure requiring protocol change
Dr. Prashanthi's Approach: "I always start with the simplest, least invasive option that is appropriate for the patient's diagnosis. IUI is often the right first step — but I won't recommend it when the evidence clearly points to IVF from the start. Each patient gets a completely personalised plan."
Cost Comparison: IUI vs IVF in Hyderabad
While IUI is cheaper per cycle (₹8,000–₹15,000), multiple failed cycles can add up. Three failed IUI cycles = ₹30,000–₹45,000 spent before moving to IVF. Factor in the emotional cost of repeated attempts too.
Mother Hospitals' transparent ₹99,000 all-inclusive IVF package includes everything — making the cost fully predictable.
Can I Skip IUI and Go Directly to IVF?
Yes — in many cases. If your diagnosis clearly indicates IVF (blocked tubes, severe male factor, failed multiple OI cycles), starting directly with IVF saves time and emotional energy. Dr. Prashanthi Reddy will recommend the most appropriate starting point during your first consultation.
Have Questions? Talk to Dr. Prashanthi
Book a personalised consultation at Mother Hospitals & IVF Center, Boduppal
📞 97059 93366💬 WhatsAppFrequently Asked Questions
Should I start with IUI or IVF?
This depends on your diagnosis. If you have open tubes, mild male factor, and unexplained infertility, IUI is often tried first. If tubes are blocked, sperm count is very low, or you are over 38, IVF may be recommended directly.
How many IUI cycles should I try before IVF?
Most fertility specialists recommend 3-4 IUI cycles before moving to IVF. However, this varies based on age and diagnosis. Patients over 37 may be advised to move to IVF sooner.
What is the cost difference between IUI and IVF?
IUI costs ₹8,000–₹15,000 per cycle at Mother Hospitals. IVF is ₹99,000 all-inclusive. However, IVF has 2-3x higher success rates per attempt, making it more cost-effective for many patients.
Is IUI painful?
IUI is generally not painful. The procedure takes 5-10 minutes and is similar to a Pap smear. Some women experience mild cramping during or after the procedure.
Can IUI work if my husband has low sperm count?
IUI can work with mild to moderate low sperm count. The sperm washing process concentrates the best sperm, improving their effectiveness. Severe azoospermia requires IVF with TESA/PESA.