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What are the main differences between IUI and IVF fertility treatments?

IUI (intrauterine insemination) is a minimally invasive procedure where prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation. IVF (in vitro fertilisation) is a more involved process where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilised with sperm in a laboratory, and the resulting embryo is transferred back into the uterus. IUI suits milder fertility challenges and is less costly per cycle; IVF is recommended for more complex cases and has higher per-cycle success rates. A Fertility Specialist will advise which treatment is most appropriate based on your individual assessment.


IUI vs IVF: key differences at a glance

IUIIVF
How it worksPrepared sperm placed directly into the uterusEggs retrieved, fertilised in a lab, embryo transferred
InvasivenessLowHigher
Per-cycle success rate15–20%*~40–50% (under 35)
Best suited toMild infertility, donor sperm, early-stage treatmentModerate to severe infertility, complex cases, older patients
Approximate cost per cycle~$2,000~$8,000–$12,000
Time commitmentMinimalIntensive
Genetic testing possible?NoYes — PGT available
Surplus embryo freezing?NoYes

*Per-cycle success rates for IUI vary based on the patient's age and reason for treatment.

How to choose between IUI and IVF

There's no universal answer. Your Fertility Specialist will consider several factors with you:
  • Your age - IUI effectiveness can decrease with age; IVF can be more often recommended from the outset for women over 38
  • Your treatment history - most specialists suggest reassessing after three to six IUI cycles without success
  • Cost - IUI is more affordable per cycle, though cumulative costs across multiple cycles can add up; both may attract Medicare rebates.

To learn more or have any of your questions answered about IUI vs IVF, connect with our Fertility Concierge today.

What is IUI?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a minimally invasive procedure where prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation, shortening the journey sperm needs to make to reach the fallopian tubes.

IUI is commonly recommended for people with unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, or those using donor sperm. It can be performed as a natural cycle, or alongside ovulation induction medications for more controlled timing.

What is IVF?

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a more involved process where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilised with sperm in a laboratory, and the resulting embryo is transferred back into the uterus. A full cycle typically spans two to four weeks.

IVF is recommended for more complex fertility challenges including blocked fallopian tubes, severe male factor infertility, endometriosis, advanced maternal age, or after unsuccessful IUI cycles. It also allows for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to screen embryos before transfer, and any surplus embryos can be frozen for future use.

IUI vs IVF success rates at Genea

Genea's independently audited results consistently perform above national averages. For women under 35, our live birth rate per complete IVF cycle is 54.2%, compared to 47.5% nationally. For women aged 35–42, we achieve 30.0% compared to 25.8% nationally.

As Dr Anthony Marren, Fertility Specialist and Medical Director at Genea Sydney CBD, notes: "IVF is more effective in older women, while IUI may be a suitable option in younger age groups, but the cause of infertility, treatment history, and personal circumstances all factor into which path makes the most sense."