“If you’ve been told you may need fertility treatment, you’ve probably heard two terms: IVF and IUI. But what do they actually mean—and how do you know which is right for you? Let’s break it down, simply and clearly.”
Introduction
Hearing “you might need fertility treatment” can feel overwhelming. Suddenly, you’re swimming in acronyms, costs, and decisions that could change your life. Two of the most common treatments are IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) and IUI (Intrauterine Insemination).
What is IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)?
IUI is often the first step in fertility treatment.
- How it works: Sperm is washed, concentrated, and placed directly into the uterus around ovulation.
- Goal: Give sperm a “head start” by bypassing the cervix.
👉 Best for:
- Mild male infertility (low sperm count or motility)
- Unexplained infertility
- Cervical mucus issues
- Couples trying with donor sperm
📊 Average success rates in Nigeria: 10–20% per cycle (higher in younger patients).
💰 Cost in Nigeria: ₦300k – ₦800k per cycle.
What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?
IVF is a more advanced treatment.
- How it works: Eggs are stimulated, retrieved, fertilized with sperm in a lab, and then transferred into the uterus.
- Goal: Overcome more complex infertility barriers by handling fertilization outside the body.
👉 Best for:
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Severe male infertility
- Endometriosis or PCOS
- Repeated failed IUI cycles
- Advanced maternal age
📊 Average success rates in Nigeria: 25–40% per cycle (higher under age 35).
💰 Cost in Nigeria: ₦1.5M – ₦5M per cycle.
Key Differences Between IVF and IUI
| Feature | IUI | IVF |
|---|---|---|
| Complexity | Simple, minimally invasive | Advanced, multiple steps |
| Cost (Nigeria) | ₦300k–₦800k | ₦1.5M–₦5M |
| Success Rate | 10–20% | 25–40% |
| Best For | Mild issues, younger couples | Complex infertility, older age, severe cases |
| Time to Result | May take multiple cycles | Higher odds per cycle |
How to Decide: IVF or IUI?
The choice depends on your unique situation.
💡 Choose IUI if:
- You’re younger, with mild infertility issues
- You want a lower-cost, lower-intervention first step
- Your doctor suggests trying a few rounds before IVF
⚡ Choose IVF if:
- You’re over 35 and time is critical
- You’ve already tried IUI without success
- You face blocked tubes, severe male infertility, or PCOS
- You want higher per-cycle success rates
👉 HopeNests tip: Many couples start with IUI, but if after 3–4 cycles there’s no success, moving to IVF is the most efficient path.
Key Takeaways
- IUI = simpler, cheaper, but lower success rates.
- IVF = more complex, more expensive, but higher success rates.
- The right choice depends on your age, diagnosis, and how much time you’re willing to wait.
At HopeNests, we don’t just explain treatments—we help you navigate them. Because you’re not just making a medical decision; you’re fighting for your dream of parenthood. And you deserve clarity every step of the way.
