Understanding IVF and IUI Fertility Treatments

By Hatch & Hope Wellness Group

If you are contemplating medical fertility treatments, there are options. Whether it is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), seeking the help of fertility specialists, nutritionists, and financial and emotional support is essential. The Ontario Government (https://lnkd.in/gkBqd2Qc) provides some financial relief for couples, offering coverage for a single IVF cycle per patient (per lifetime). They have also extended the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC), which includes more fertility-related expenses. A fertility treatment that is right for you will depend on your medical history. Whether your situation leads you to IUI or IVF, preparing your body and mind will increase your chances of success.

🌱 IUI – Intrauterine Insemination
What it is: IUI is a fertility treatment where sperm is directly inserted into the uterus during ovulation to increase the chances of fertilization.

Who it’s for:
Couples with mild male infertility (low sperm count/motility)
Women with unexplained infertility
LGBTQ+ families using donor sperm
Single women trying to conceive

The process:
Ovulation tracking – through cycle monitoring or medications.
Sperm preparation – sperm is washed and concentrated.
Insemination – a thin catheter places the sperm into the uterus.

Wait for pregnancy test – around 2 weeks later.

Pros:
Less invasive
Lower cost than IVF
Often used as a first-line treatment

🌸 IVF – In Vitro Fertilization
What it is: IVF is a more involved treatment where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized in a lab, and then implanted into the uterus.

Who it’s for:
Women with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
Older women or those with low ovarian reserve
Couples with severe male factor infertility
Failed IUI cycles
Those using donor eggs/sperm or gestational carriers

The process:
Ovarian stimulation – with injectable hormones to produce multiple eggs.
Egg retrieval – eggs are collected under mild sedation.
Fertilization – eggs are fertilized with sperm in a lab.
Embryo culture – embryos grow for 3–5 days.
Embryo transfer – one or more embryos are placed into the uterus.

Pregnancy test – done about 10–14 days later.

Pros:
Higher success rates per cycle (especially with younger eggs)
Option to test embryos (PGT) before implantation
Can freeze embryos for future use

🌼 Choosing Between IUI & IVF:

Start with IUI if your situation is less complex and you want to try a more affordable, less invasive option.

Go straight to IVF if age, medical history, or diagnosis suggest lower chances with IUI.