IUI vs IVF: understanding the difference before choosing

The central difference

With IUI, prepared sperm are placed directly into the uterus around ovulation and fertilisation still needs to happen inside the body. With IVF, eggs are collected and fertilised in a laboratory before an embryo may be transferred to the uterus.

IUI is simpler, but suitability is narrower

IUI generally involves less medication, no egg collection and less laboratory work than IVF. It may be considered when fallopian tubes are open, ovulation and sperm factors are suitable, or donor sperm is being used. It may offer limited benefit in severe tubal or male-factor problems.

IVF offers more laboratory information

IVF allows the team to observe fertilisation and embryo development. It can address a wider range of fertility factors, but requires more medication, monitoring, procedures, cost and decisions about embryos.

• Why is one option being recommended?
• How many attempts would be reasonable before reviewing?
• What would make the team change strategy?
• Which risks apply to medication and multiple pregnancy?
• What are the full costs of each pathway?

Age and time can affect the decision

When time is clinically important, repeating a lower-intervention treatment with a low expected benefit may not be the best use of time. On the other hand, IVF should not be recommended simply because it is available. The expected benefit and trade-offs need to be individualised.

A decision is more than a success percentage

Consider invasiveness, diagnosis, time, finances, emotional capacity, number of visits and what you would do if the first attempt is unsuccessful. Ask for a review point before starting.

Common questions