01 — What is it
IUI places sperm directly in the uterus during ovulation — closer to a tuned-up natural cycle. IVF retrieves eggs, fertilizes them in the lab, and transfers an embryo — more control, more cost, more steps.
02 — Who typically considers it
- 01
You've been trying without success and want to understand your real options.
- 02
You're using donor sperm and starting with a less invasive path.
- 03
There's a known diagnosis (low AMH, blocked tubes, male-factor) shaping the choice.
03 — Common misconceptions
The myth
"You should always try IUI first."
The reality
For some diagnoses and ages, IUI cycles delay an answer instead of providing one. Sometimes IVF is the faster, kinder path.
The myth
"IVF works the first try."
The reality
It often takes more than one transfer. Plan emotionally and financially for a series, not a single shot.
04 — Questions people often ask
- ✦
Given my diagnosis and age, how many IUI cycles is reasonable before moving on?
- ✦
What's a realistic per-transfer success rate for someone like me?
- ✦
What protocol changes would you make if cycle one doesn't work?
05 — Real stories
"Three IUIs in, I realized nobody had told me the math. We pivoted to IVF the next month."
06 — What decisions typically come next
- →
Where the ceiling is on IUI cycles for you.
- →
Fresh vs frozen transfer.
- →
Single embryo transfer policies.
When you're ready