生殖地圖What is the difference between IVF and IUI? How to choose?
IUI (intrauterine insemination) involves injecting processed sperm directly into the uterus, with lower cost and a treatment cycle of about 1 week; IVF (in vitro fertilization) involves fertilizing eggs outside the body and then implanting embryos into the uterus, with higher cost and a cycle of about 4–6 weeks. The appropriate choice depends on the cause of infertility and individual assessment, determined by the physician. This page provides neutral educational information, not medical advice.
FAQ
What is the fundamental technical difference between IUI and IVF?
IUI (intrauterine insemination) involves injecting washed and concentrated sperm directly into the uterine cavity, allowing natural fertilization of the egg; IVF (in vitro fertilization) involves retrieving eggs, fertilizing them with sperm in the laboratory, culturing embryos, and then implanting them into the uterus. The main difference is the site of fertilization.
In which situations is IUI usually considered first?
Mild to moderate male factor (slightly low sperm concentration or motility but not severe), unexplained infertility (both partners' basic tests normal), or cases using donor sperm may be evaluated by the physician for a trial of IUI. Suitability depends on individual test results.
In which situations is IVF usually directly considered?
Severe male factor infertility (significant sperm issues), bilateral tubal blockage, moderate to severe endometriosis, advanced age (declining ovarian function), or failure to achieve pregnancy after several IUI cycles may lead the physician to consider IVF directly. This page provides neutral information, not medical advice.
How do the cost structures of IUI and IVF differ?
IUI costs generally include ovulation monitoring, sperm processing, and insemination, with relatively lower total cost; IVF involves multiple components such as egg retrieval surgery, laboratory fertilization and embryo culture, and embryo transfer, resulting in higher cost. Both may be eligible for government subsidies (at contracted institutions, subject to eligibility). See the subsidy explanation on this site for details.
How long are the treatment cycles for IUI and IVF?
The IUI treatment cycle is about 1–2 weeks (including ovulation monitoring and insemination day); the IVF retrieval cycle is about 4–6 weeks (including 8–14 days of medication stimulation, egg retrieval, embryo culture, and transfer). If all embryos are frozen, the transfer is scheduled in a subsequent cycle. Actual timelines vary by individual.
Does the Ministry of Health and Welfare's infertility subsidy cover IUI?
The Ministry of Health and Welfare's infertility assisted reproduction subsidy program mainly covers IVF (in vitro fertilization) cycles; IUI (intrauterine insemination) subsidies depend on individual city/county government programs. For central government subsidy conditions and amounts, please refer to the latest announcement from the Health Promotion Administration.
If IUI does not achieve the expected outcome, can I try IVF?
Yes. IUI and IVF are different levels of assisted reproduction. The physician will evaluate subsequent plans based on test results and treatment progress. Whether to continue or switch treatments is a medical decision. This page provides neutral information, not medical advice.
How does the preparation for male partners differ between IUI and IVF?
For IUI, the male partner provides a semen sample on the day of insemination, which is washed and concentrated in the laboratory before injection; for IVF, a semen sample is also required (or testicular sperm extraction if needed), but the sperm is processed for in vitro fertilization. Both require infectious disease screening. Specific preparation steps should follow the instructions of the institution.
References (official data sources)
· This page is a neutral compilation of information, for reference only, not medical advice, and does not constitute any treatment commitment. Actual regulations and treatments should be based on announcements from competent authorities and explanations from qualified physicians.
