IUI, explained plainly.
Intrauterine insemination places washed, concentrated sperm directly into the uterus around ovulation — a simpler, lower-cost first step before IVF for many patients.
An IUI cycle, step by step
01
Fertility workup
02
Monitoring or oral meds (e.g. letrozole)
03
Trigger shot at the right time
04
Insemination (~5 minutes)
05
Two-week wait & pregnancy test
Who it suits
Often a first-line option for unexplained infertility, mild male-factor issues, cervical factors, or donor-sperm cycles — with at least one open fallopian tube.
Average cost
Roughly $500–$4,000 per cycle including medications and monitoring, depending on the clinic and how closely you're monitored.
Success rates
Per-cycle success is modest — often 10–20% depending on age and diagnosis. Most clinics recommend reassessing after 3–4 failed cycles.
When to move to IVF
Age 38+, blocked tubes, severe male factor, or 3–4 unsuccessful IUIs are common reasons clinicians recommend switching to IVF.
Donor sperm
IUI with donor sperm is common for single parents and same-sex couples. Compare banks on screening standards, genetic testing and identity-release policies.
Choosing a clinic
Ask about monitoring approach (blood work vs. urine strips), same-day insemination availability, and total per-cycle pricing — not just the base fee.