If you’re trying to decide between IVF and IUI in 2026, here’s the simple truth: IUI is less invasive, more affordable, and suitable for mild fertility issues. IVF treatment is more advanced, has significantly higher success rates, and is recommended for complex infertility cases.
But the real decision isn’t just about cost or procedure. it’s about your age, ovarian reserve, diagnosis, and how long you’ve been trying. Let’s break this down clearly so you can make a confident, informed choice.
What is IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)?
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a fertility treatment where specially prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation. The goal? Increase the number of sperm reaching the egg.
How IUI Works (Step-by-Step)
Ovulation monitoring (natural or medicated cycle)
Mild fertility medications (if required)
Sperm washing in laboratory
Thin catheter inserts sperm into uterus
10–15 minute procedure, no anesthesia required
It’s quick and usually painless, and you go home the same day.
Who Is IUI Best For?
IUI is typically recommended when:
There is mild male factor infertility
You have unexplained infertility
There are cervical mucus issues
Fallopian tubes are open
You are under 35
You’ve been trying for less than 3–4 years
However, IUI success depends heavily on age and ovarian reserve.
What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a more advanced treatment where eggs are fertilised with sperm in a lab, and the resulting embryo is transferred into the uterus.
Unlike IUI, fertilisation happens outside the body.
IVF Process Overview
Ovarian stimulation injections (8–12 days)
Egg retrieval under mild anesthesia
Fertilization in laboratory
Embryo development (3–5 days)
Embryo transfer
Pregnancy test after 12–14 days
IVF gives doctors more control over fertilisation and embryo quality.
Who Is IVF Recommended For?
IVF is usually advised when:
Fallopian tubes are blocked
Severe male infertility exists
Low AMH levels
Endometriosis is present
Multiple IUI cycles have failed
Age is above 35–38
Genetic testing is required
Long-standing infertility (5+ years)
IVF vs IUI: Key Differences Explained Clearly
The biggest difference? IVF bypasses many natural barriers. IUI does not.
Factor | IUI | IVF |
Invasiveness | Minimal | Moderate |
Fertilization | Inside body | In laboratory |
Anesthesia | No | Yes (egg retrieval) |
Duration | 1 day | 2–3 weeks |
Genetic Testing | Not possible | Possible |
Cost | Lower | Higher |
Success Rate | Moderate | High |
Success Rates in 2026: Age-Wise Comparison
Success rate is one of the most important deciding factors.
IUI Success Rate Per Cycle (2026 Average) |
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IVF Success Rate Per Cycle (2026 Average) |
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IUI often requires multiple cycles to achieve pregnancy. In women under 35, IVF success is often 3–4 times higher than IUI per cycle. This is why age takes on such a very important role in decision-making.
IVF vs IUI Cost Comparison in India (2026)
Cost matters. But so does cost-effectiveness.
IUI Cost in 2026 (India) | ₹8,000 – ₹20,000 per cycle. |
IVF Cost in 2026 (India) | ₹120,000 – ₹250,000 per cycle. Add-ons may include:
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Although the cost of IUI is less in terms of per cycle, 3–4 IUI cycles may be required. Three failed IUIs may cost ₹45,000–₹60,000 with emotional exhaustion and lost time. Especially significant after 35. In some cases, going directly to IVF is more cost-effective in the long term.
When Doctors Skip IUI and Recommend IVF First
Not everyone should try IUI first. Time is fertility’s most sensitive factor. Delaying effective treatment may reduce overall chances. Doctors usually recommend direct IVF if:
AMH is very low
Tubes are blocked
Severe sperm motility issues
Woman is above 38
3+ years of infertility
Previous IUI failures
How Doctors Decide between IUI and IVF: The Framework
In women under 30 with good ovarian reserve, 2–3 IUI cycles are reasonable. Above 35? Doctors often recommend moving quickly to IVF. Fertility specialists evaluate:
Age
AMH levels
AFC (Antral Follicle Count)
Tube status
Sperm analysis
Duration of infertility
Previous treatments
Which is Better in 2026: IUI or IVF
There is no universal answer.
If you are young, your fallopian tubes are open, and you are facing mild infertility, IUI may be the first step.
If you are over 35, have low AMH, have blocked tubes, and have severe male factor infertility, IVF is usually the better choice.
In short, IUI is a starting point. IVF is a solution for complex or time-sensitive infertility. The best treatment is not the cheapest. It’s the one that aligns with your diagnosis and biological timeline. If you are unsure, don’t guess. A fertility assessment including AMH, ultrasound, and semen analysis can clarify the right path.
If you are unsure, don’t guess. A fertility assessment including AMH, ultrasound, and semen analysis can clarify the right path. Consult with Vardaan Fertility Hospital.
Visit Vardaan Hospital for IUI and IVF Treatment
Looking for trusted IUI treatment in Jalandhar and Amritsar or advanced IVF treatment in Amritsar and Jalandhar? At Vardaan Hospital, IVF clinic in Jalandhar we combine expert fertility specialists, modern labs, and compassionate care to guide you toward parenthood with confidence. Whether you need a simple IUI cycle or advanced IVF support, we create personalised treatment plans focused on safety and success.
Take the next step with hope and assurance. Book your fertility consultation today!
