When it comes to starting a family, couples facing infertility often encounter various treatment options, including In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). Each method has its own advantages, procedures, and suitability based on individual circumstances. At Samrudh Fertility Center, we aim to provide clarity on these options to help you make informed decisions.
What is IVF?
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a widely recognized assisted reproductive technology that involves several steps:
- Ovarian Stimulation: Hormonal medications are administered to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
- Egg Retrieval: Mature eggs are collected from the ovaries through a minor surgical procedure.
- Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting.
- Embryo Transfer: One or more healthy embryos are transferred into the woman’s uterus.
Advantages of IVF
- Higher success rates compared to other methods, especially for women over 35.
- Ability to address a wider range of infertility issues, including blocked fallopian tubes and severe male infertility.
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can be performed on embryos before implantation.
What is IUI?
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a less invasive fertility treatment that involves placing sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation.
Procedure
- Sperm Preparation: The sperm is washed and concentrated to ensure only the healthiest sperm are used.
- Insemination: Using a thin catheter, prepared sperm is inserted into the uterus.
Advantages of IUI
- Less invasive and simpler than IVF, making it suitable for couples with unexplained infertility or mild male factor infertility.
- Lower cost compared to IVF, making it an accessible option for many couples.
- Can be performed without hormonal stimulation in some cases.
What is ICSI?
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a specialized form of IVF that involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg to facilitate fertilization.
Procedure
- Similar to IVF, ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval are performed.
- A single sperm is selected and injected directly into an egg using fine micro-manipulation techniques.
Advantages of ICSI
- Particularly beneficial for couples with male fertility issues such as low sperm count or motility problems.
- Increases the chances of fertilization when traditional IVF has failed.
Comparison Table: IVF vs. IUI vs. ICSI
Factor | IVF | IUI | ICSI |
Full Form | In Vitro Fertilization | Intrauterine Insemination | Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection |
Process | Egg retrieval, fertilization in lab | Sperm inserted directly into uterus | Sperm injected directly into egg |
Success Rate | 55% – 75% | 10% – 20% | Higher than standard IVF |
Cost (in INR) | ₹2,00,000 – ₹3,00,000 | ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 | Included in IVF costs |
Ideal Candidates | Severe infertility issues | Mild infertility or unexplained infertility | Male factor infertility |
Invasiveness | More invasive | Less invasive | More invasive than standard IVF |
Conclusion
Choosing between IVF, IUI, and ICSI depends on various factors such as age, medical history, and specific fertility issues. At Samrudh Fertility Center, our experienced team will work closely with you to determine the most suitable treatment option tailored to your needs.
If you have questions about these fertility treatments or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today! We are here to support you every step of the way on your journey to parenthood.
