If you've been trying to conceive for over 12 months (or 6 months if you're over 35) without success, an infertility evaluation is a reasonable next step. Two of the most common treatments — IUI and IVF — work very differently, and the right choice depends on your specific diagnosis.
What Is IUI?
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) involves placing specially prepared sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. It's a less invasive, lower-cost first step, often recommended for mild male-factor infertility, unexplained infertility, or ovulation issues.
What Is IVF?
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) involves retrieving eggs, fertilising them with sperm in a lab, and transferring the resulting embryo into the uterus. It's typically recommended for blocked fallopian tubes, more severe male-factor infertility, endometriosis, or after IUI attempts haven't succeeded.
Key Factors in Choosing Between Them
- Age and ovarian reserve
- Cause of infertility (tubal, ovulatory, male-factor, unexplained)
- Previous treatment history
- Budget and time considerations, since IVF has a higher cost but often a higher per-cycle success rate for certain conditions
Fertility Care Backed by Apollo Speciality Hospitals
Dr. Indumathi Thayar E conducts initial infertility evaluations and consultations at Rays Women's Clinic, Anna Nagar, with further diagnostic and treatment support available through her affiliation with Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Vanagaram — a consideration that matters for patients travelling from other parts of Tamil Nadu, other Indian states, or overseas (NRI patients) who want continuity of care within a recognised hospital network.