Hey everyone! I’ve been struggling to decide whether to try IUI first or jump straight into IVF. I’ve read so much conflicting information that I’m feeling overwhelmed. Has anyone else been through this dilemma? What factors helped you decide which path to take? Any advice or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated!
I am unable to interpret those numbers, but I did undergo 5 unsuccessful IUIs and now I regret not going straight to IVF and saving money.
It could be worth considering doing one or two.
Is that before washing? Usually it is recommended to have at least 5-10 million post-washing.
I underwent three IUI procedures - two with injectables and one in the operating room. Despite the fact that we paid for them ourselves and they were not successful, I believe they helped prepare me for my first egg retrieval. While expensive and with low success rates, I don’t regret them. I am not familiar with the sperm analysis you mentioned, but I suggest considering ICSI with Zymot for IVF.
I chose to go with IVF right away because my insurance covers both options and my doctor and I agreed it was the best choice.
I can’t confirm the accuracy of your numbers, but if sperm motility isn’t a major concern, I would recommend skipping the IUI. Instead, consider trying a few clomid timed intercourse cycles as they are more cost effective.
I was in a similar situation as you, and we decided to go with IVF as a last resort. If we run out of money, we may have to consider IUI instead. 
After spending 7 months undergoing IUI, we initially followed basic protocols before eventually incorporating injectables. Unfortunately, I experienced one confirmed chemical pregnancy and suspect another, with the last cycle extending past 45 days without a positive HPT. Despite the less invasive nature of IUI, the financial and time investment was significant. Our first FET is now complete, and I believe starting IVF sooner may have been a better decision. Our journey is personal, but I hope sharing our experience can provide some guidance. We are dealing with unexplained infertility, with my husband’s fertility being normal. Wishing you luck in whatever path you choose. (total characters: 366)
Hello! My husband and I went through several rounds of IUI with insurance coverage, paying out of pocket for office co-pays and medication. After unsuccessful cycles with medication only, we attempted IUI, also without success. We took a break and focused on preparing financially for IVF. I believe everything happened for a reason, and each person’s journey is unique. If I had to do it again, I would still try medications and IUI before IVF. 
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Our numbers were right at the cutoff just like yours, as I think your numbers are pre-wash. We opted for IVF without any regrets.
I would consider undergoing IVF.
Can you share your numbers with us? Sperm quality can vary, but having your own diagnosis may assist in guiding you towards a decision.
Kindly provide information to your female partner regarding the details of IVF or IUI procedures, which are mainly determined by her age and ovarian reserve, especially if the male partner does not have any male factor infertility.
I regret trying IUI, my recommendation is to proceed directly to IVF.
Let’s skip right to IVF.
I experienced a similar situation where we had two unsuccessful IUI’s before deciding to go straight to IVF. Fortunately, we had success with 2 out of 3 transfers.
My diagnosis differs from yours and I’m unsure of the costs for IUI versus IVF in your situation. In Ontario, IUI typically costs around $500 per cycle, with me having 6 cycles with 1 ending in miscarriage. IVF is “funded” in Ontario, but there are additional costs totaling around $20,000 for egg retrieval, 2 transfers, medication, PGT testing, etc. My first transfer resulted in a chemical pregnancy and I am currently awaiting the outcome of my second transfer. Considering the costs, it may be worth trying IUI a few times before transitioning to IVF. It seems like you may not require stims for IUI, which could make the process less taxing compared to others.
We opted for IVF right away, hoping to have preserved embryos to show for our efforts. It’s disheartening to hear stories of failed IUI cycles with no embryos to show for it.
I have no regrets about trying IUI first, as I was able to conceive on my second attempt even though it ultimately ended in miscarriage due to my age. I find that IUI helps prepare you for the process of fertility treatments and the intense nature of IVF. I started IVF after my second IUI and am grateful for the insurance coverage that made it possible. I completed two rounds of IUI before moving on to IVF and found it to be a beneficial step in my journey towards conception.