If you’re looking into fertility treatments, you’ve probably come across IUI, or intrauterine insemination. It’s one of the first options mentioned, because IUI can be a simpler, less invasive treatment that can be a great starting point for people with certain circumstances who don’t need something as involved as IVF.
But what exactly is IUI? Who is IUI suitable for? And how successful is IUI? At Care Fertility, we understand that choosing the right fertility treatment can feel like a big decision, and we’re here to help you feel informed and supported every step of the way.
What is IUI?
IUI is short for intrauterine insemination and is sometimes called artificial insemination. It’s a type of fertility treatment where healthy, high-quality sperm are separated from those that are slow-moving, abnormally shaped, or not moving. The selected sperm are then placed directly into the uterus timed around ovulation, giving them the best chance to reach the egg.
The procedure itself is relatively quick and usually doesn’t require medication. In some cases, mild hormonal treatments may be used to help time ovulation perfectly or to help produce an egg. It’s often described as no more uncomfortable than a smear test, making it a good option for those looking for a less invasive approach.
Who is IUI suitable for?
IUI can be a good option for:
- Couples with mild male-factor infertility. If there are slight issues with sperm movement or numbers, preparing the sperm before the procedure can help.
- Unexplained infertility. IUI is often recommended as a first step for couples where no obvious cause for infertility has been found.
- Same-sex female couples or single women using donor sperm. For many, IUI is the first treatment they’ll try because it’s simple and effective if there are no known fertility issues.
It’s worth knowing that IUI isn’t suitable for everyone. For example, if your fallopian tubes are blocked or if there are more complex fertility challenges, other treatments like IVF might be better suited to your needs.
What happens during IUI?
The IUI process is pretty straightforward and usually takes place over the course of your cycle:
- Cycle monitoring: We’ll monitor your cycle to pinpoint when ovulation is likely to occur. This might involve tracking your natural cycle or using hormone treatments to stimulate ovulation.
- Sperm preparation: Whether you’re using donor sperm or your partner’s sperm, it’s prepared to ensure only the healthiest sperm are used for the procedure.
- The insemination: Using a fine catheter, the prepared sperm is gently placed into your uterus. The whole thing only takes a few minutes, and you can carry on with your day afterwards.
Costs of IUI
IUI is generally more affordable than other options like IVF. While prices can vary depending on your clinic and specific needs, IUI is considered a less intensive procedure, which helps keep the costs down.
At Care Fertility, the cost of an IUI cycle starts at £1,250.
There are a few additional costs to consider, depending on your circumstances:
- Donor sperm: If you’re using donor sperm, there’s an extra charge. Costs for donor sperm at Care Fertility start from £1,280.
- Medications: For some, hormone treatments may be recommended to stimulate ovulation or regulate your cycle. Medication costs are additional and vary depending on what’s prescribed.
Compared to IVF, which starts at £2,995 for the Care Value package, IUI can be a more budget-friendly option for those starting their fertility journey.
How successful is IUI?
When it comes to success rates, because so much depends on individual circumstances like age, overall health, and the reason for fertility treatment the success rates can be quite variable.
IUI is often much less successful than IVF, largely because much of the process relies on the body’s natural systems. Once the sperm is placed into the uterus, fertilisation and implantation happen on their own, without external intervention. In contrast, IVF provides more control—fertilisation takes place in a lab where we can monitor the process, select the healthiest embryos, and transfer them directly into the uterus. This added precision means IVF success rates are typically around three times higher than those of IUI.
For same-sex female couples or single women using donor sperm, IUI success rates can be slightly higher, especially when there are no underlying fertility concerns. While IUI success rates might seem modest compared to IVF, it can be chosen as a starting treatment because it’s less invasive and more affordable. Some people try several cycles of IUI before considering other options.
Things to consider before choosing IUI
Like any fertility treatment, IUI isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There are a few things to think about before deciding if it’s right for you:
- Age: As with most fertility treatments, success rates tend to be higher for younger people.
- Underlying conditions: If you have more complex fertility challenges, such as blocked fallopian tubes or endometriosis, IVF might offer a better chance of success.
- Emotional readiness: Fertility treatment can be an emotional rollercoaster, and it’s important to feel prepared for both the highs and the lows.
We’ll work closely with you to understand your situation and recommend the treatment that’s best for you.
What are the benefits of IUI?
There’s no egg collection or lab work to fertilise eggs and create embryos, which means it’s quicker, simpler, and generally more affordable.
It’s also a great option for same-sex female couples and single women using donor sperm, providing an accessible way to start the journey to parenthood.
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IUI can be a fantastic option for many people starting out on their fertility journey. It’s simple, affordable, and effective for the right people. At Care Fertility, we’re here to guide you through every step, helping you decide if IUI is the right choice for you and offering support at every stage of treatment.
If you’d like to chat with one of our friendly experts about IUI or find out more about starting treatment, give us a call on 0800 564 2270 or email enquiriesteam@carefertility.com
