The most common question in a first consult is whether to start with IUI or go straight to IVF. There is no single answer, but the reasoning is the same for everyone.
When IUI makes sense first
IUI works best when at least one tube is open, the washed sperm count is reasonable and the cause is unexplained infertility, mild male factor or irregular ovulation. It is also the usual first step with donor sperm. A cycle costs a fraction of IVF and needs no anesthesia.
When IVF comes first
We usually suggest IVF first when both tubes are blocked, when sperm numbers are very low, when endometriosis is advanced, when you want embryos tested, or when age makes time the scarcest resource. In those cases, months of IUI can cost more time than they save money.
Budget is part of the plan
Coverage matters. Some plans cover a set number of IUI cycles before IVF, others cover IVF directly or not at all. Our financial counselor checks your benefits before we finalize a plan, so the medical and the financial answers line up.
You can change course
A plan is a starting point. If IUI is not working after the number of cycles we agreed on, we review the data from each cycle and decide the next step together.
