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IVF vs IUI: Which Fertility Treatment is Right for You?
  • BY Admin
  • August 5, 2025

IVF vs IUI: Which Fertility Treatment is Right for You?

Infertility affects millions of couples across the globe, and in India, more people than ever are turning to assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF and IUI to fulfil their dreams of parenthood. Two of the most common fertility treatments available today are Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF). But how do you decide which one is right for you?

At Sattva Fertility Center, under the expert care of Dr. Rathnamani H. Arkachari, we believe in helping couples make informed decisions based on individual medical conditions, fertility goals, and treatment outcomes. Whether you’re considering a less invasive approach or a more advanced solution like the IVF procedure in Bangalore, it’s essential to understand your options. This blog will explore the key differences between IVF and IUI, their benefits, success rates, and when each may be the right option.

Understanding IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)

IUI is often considered the first-line fertility treatment for couples with mild infertility issues. In this procedure, specially prepared sperm are directly inserted into the woman’s uterus around the time of ovulation, increasing the chances of sperm meeting the egg.

Who Is IUI Best For?

IUI is typically recommended in the following cases:

  • Unexplained infertility
  • Mild male factor infertility (low sperm count or motility)
  • Cervical factor infertility
  • Ovulation disorders (if ovulation is medically induced)
  • Same-sex couples or single women using donor sperm

Advantages of IUI:

  • Less invasive than IVF
  • More affordable
  • Can be done with or without fertility medications
  • Shorter treatment cycles

However, IUI may not be effective for women with severe fallopian tube damage, endometriosis, or significantly low ovarian reserve.

Understanding IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)

IVF is a more advanced procedure where the egg and sperm are fertilised outside the body in a controlled lab environment. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the woman’s uterus. IVF has higher success rates and is used for more complex fertility issues.

Who Is IVF Best For?

IVF is often the recommended choice for:

  • Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
  • Severe endometriosis
  • Advanced maternal age
  • Male factor infertility (very low sperm count or quality)
  • Failed IUI cycles
  • Genetic concerns requiring embryo screening (PGT)
  • Couples needing donor eggs or sperm

Advantages of IVF:

  • Higher success rates compared to IUI
  • Enables genetic testing of embryos
  • More control over fertilisation and embryo development
  • Useful for fertility preservation (egg/embryo freezing)

Though IVF is more complex and costly, it remains the most effective ART method for couples with moderate to severe fertility issues.

How to Decide: IUI or IVF?

The decision to pursue IUI or IVF should be based on:

  • Age of the woman: IVF is more effective in women over 35.
  • Duration of infertility: Couples trying for over 2 years may benefit more from IVF.
  • Medical diagnosis: Conditions like blocked tubes, low AMH, or severe sperm issues favour IVF.
  • Budget and emotional readiness: IVF requires financial, emotional, and physical commitment.
  • Previous treatment attempts: After failed IUI cycles, IVF is often the logical next step.

At Sattva Fertility Center, we use advanced diagnostic tools and personalised fertility assessments to recommend the best treatment path for each couple.

Success Rates: What to Expect

Success rates vary depending on multiple factors such as age, cause of infertility, and overall health. On average:

  • IUI: 10–20% per cycle for women under 35.

  • IVF: 40–60% per cycle for women under 35, gradually declining with age.

IVF also allows for embryo freezing, which means more chances at pregnancy from a single egg retrieval.

The Sattva Fertility Advantage

Choosing the right fertility treatment starts with choosing the right care provider. At Sattva Fertility Centre, led by Dr. Rathnamani H. Arkachari, we offer comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based care tailored to your individual needs. With our advanced facilities and highly skilled team, we are proud to be recognised as a trusted IVF Center in Bangalore, offering both IUI and IVF under one roof.

Whether you are just starting your fertility journey or considering switching treatment paths, our team will guide you at every step—from testing to treatment to successful conception.

Conclusion

Both IUI and IVF are valuable fertility treatments, each with its own benefits and ideal use cases. While IUI may be a gentle starting point for some, IVF offers higher success and broader applicability, especially for more complex conditions. The right choice depends on your unique situation.

If you’re unsure whether to choose IUI or IVF, consult with a fertility expert who can help you make the most informed and hopeful decision.