IVF vs. IUI: Which Fertility Treatment Is Better?
The team here at Houston Fertility Center has helped countless men and women start the family of their dreams. This can be achieved through advanced male and female infertility treatment options, which use advanced techniques.
Two popular options for fertility treatments include in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). Let's see how the two compare.
About In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a fertility treatment in which an egg is fertilized in a lab setting before being placed back in the womb to be carried to term. IVF boosts the chances of successful pregnancy and live birth, and it is an excellent option to consider for male factor infertility, female factor infertility, or issues with both male and female infertility.
The In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Process
During the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process, fertility specialists induce ovulation and harvest viable eggs. An egg is then fertilized and set in an incubator to promote cellular division. Once the cell has properly divided, it can then be placed back in the womb to be taken to term.
About Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a type of artificial insemination in which the sperm is placed into the uterus, bypassing the cervix. This helps increase the chances of successful pregnancy and live birth since the sperm is placed closer to the egg. IUI is a viable option for treating certain types of male factor infertility, female factor infertility, and a combination of both male and female infertility.
The Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Process
During intrauterine insemination (IUI), a sample of sperm is placed in a catheter. The catheter is then inserted past the cervix, and the sperm is released into the uterus so that the egg can be fertilized.
The Advantages of IVF Over IUI
In general, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is more effective and more likely to result in pregnancy and live birth than intrauterine insemination (IUI). This is simply the nature of both procedures, and since IVF is a more involved process, it should come as no surprise that it is more likely to achieve optimal results. The effectiveness of IVF is one of the reasons that it is one of the most popular fertility treatments around.
The Advantages of IUI Over IVF
While intrauterine insemination (IUI) may not be as effective or efficient as in vitro fertilization (IVF), it is still relatively effective and much more affordable. Since there is less lab work involved in the IUI process, couples or individuals who decides that IUI is for them will pay less than an IVF treatment.
Which option is best for me?
Ideal treatment options can vary from case to case, so it's important that you consult with a fertility specialist about all of your treatment options. During this visit, you will be able to get answers to the many questions that you may have and have all concerns addressed in full.
Contact Houston Fertility Center
For more information about in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), be sure to contact our advanced fertility center today. The entire team here at Houston Fertility Center looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you start the family that you've always wanted.
