Cost Difference Between IUI and IVF: A Complete Guide for Couples in Delhi Infertility can be emotionally and financially overwhelming. For couples exploring parenthood options, understanding the cost difference between IUI and IVF is often the first step toward making an informed decision. While both treatments aim to help couples conceive, their procedures, success rates, and overall expenses vary significantly. If you are searching for Low-cost infertility treatment in Delhi, this comprehensive guide will help you compare IUI and IVF in terms of cost, effectiveness, and long-term value—so you can choose the right path with confidence.
Understanding IUI and IVF: The Basics Before comparing costs, let’s briefly understand how these treatments work.
What is IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)? Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a relatively simple fertility procedure. During ovulation, specially prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus to increase the chances of fertilization. Best suited for: ● Mild male factor infertility ● Unexplained infertility ● Ovulation issues ● Donor sperm cases
IUI is less invasive and generally recommended as a first-line treatment.
What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)? In vitro fertilisation (IVF) involves retrieving eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory, and transferring the embryo back into the uterus.
Recommended for: ● Blocked fallopian tubes ● Severe male infertility ● Advanced maternal age ● Failed IUI cycles ● Endometriosis
IVF is more advanced and typically offers higher success rates per cycle.
IUI vs IVF: Cost Comparison in Delhi For couples seeking Low-cost infertility treatment in Delhi, understanding real-world pricing is essential.
Average Cost of IUI in Delhi ● Per cycle cost: ₹8,000 – ₹20,000 ● Medication cost: ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 ● Total per cycle: ₹12,000 – ₹30,000
Most doctors recommend 3–6 cycles before considering IVF.
Average Cost of IVF in Delhi ● Basic IVF cycle: ₹90,000 – ₹1,50,000 ● Medication cost: ₹40,000 – ₹70,000 ● Additional procedures (if needed): ○ ICSI: ₹20,000 – ₹40,000 ○ Embryo freezing: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000 ○ Blastocyst transfer: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000
Total IVF cost per cycle: ₹1,30,000 – ₹2,50,000 (or more depending on complexity)
Why Is IVF More Expensive Than IUI? The cost difference exists because IVF: 1. Requires advanced laboratory technology 2. Involves egg retrieval under anesthesia 3. Needs highly skilled embryologists 4. Includes controlled ovarian stimulation 5. Requires specialized infrastructure and monitoring
On the other hand, IUI is a simpler outpatient procedure with minimal lab involvement.
Success Rates: Cost vs Value When evaluating Low-cost infertility treatment in Delhi, it’s important to compare not just price—but also success rates.
IUI Success Rate ● 10–20% per cycle (depending on age and condition) ● Higher success in women under 35
IVF Success Rate ● 40–60% per cycle (for women under 35) ● Decreases with age but remains significantly higher than IUI
Important Insight: Although IVF is more expensive per cycle, it may be more cost-effective in the long run because of higher success rates. For example:
● 4 IUI cycles × ₹20,000 = ₹80,000 ● 1 IVF cycle = ₹1,50,000
If IUI fails multiple times, the cumulative cost approaches IVF pricing.
Hidden Costs to Consider When comparing IUI and IVF expenses, consider: ● Consultation fees ● Ultrasound monitoring ● Hormonal blood tests ● Travel expenses ● Time off work ● Emotional stress
Clinics offering Low-cost infertility treatment in Delhi often provide transparent packages that bundle many of these services.
When Is IUI More Cost-Effective? IUI may be the better option if: ● You are under 35 ● Infertility is unexplained ● Male factor infertility is mild ● Tubes are open ● Budget constraints are significant
For couples seeking affordable fertility care, starting with IUI is often medically justified.
When IVF Is Worth the Investment IVF becomes financially smarter when: ● Fallopian tubes are blocked ● Sperm count is severely low ● Age is above 35–37 ● Multiple IUI cycles have failed ● Genetic testing is required
In these cases, opting directly for IVF can save time, money, and emotional energy.
Comparing Emotional and Financial ROI IUI Pros: ● Less invasive ● Lower upfront cost ● Minimal downtime
IUI Cons: ● Lower success rate ● Multiple cycles may be needed
IVF Pros: ● Higher success rate ● Advanced embryo selection ● Suitable for complex cases
IVF Cons: ● Higher upfront cost ● Physically and emotionally demanding
Couples looking for Low-cost infertility treatment in Delhi should focus on cost per successful pregnancy, not just cost per cycle.
How to Choose the Right Treatment in Delhi Selecting the right clinic is equally important as choosing the procedure. Look for: 1. Transparent pricing 2. Experienced fertility specialists 3. In-house embryology lab 4. Good patient reviews 5. Personalized treatment plans
Many reputed fertility centers in Delhi now offer EMI options and package deals, making advanced fertility care more accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. Is IUI always cheaper than IVF? Yes, per cycle it is cheaper. However, repeated failed cycles may increase overall expenses.
2. Can I switch from IUI to IVF? Yes. Many fertility specialists recommend moving to IVF after 3–6 unsuccessful IUI cycles.
3. Does insurance cover fertility treatments in Delhi?
Most insurance plans in India have limited coverage, though some corporate policies now include fertility benefits.
4. What is the most affordable fertility option? For many couples, starting with IUI is the most affordable approach under Low-cost infertility treatment in Delhi programs.
Final Thoughts: Making a Smart Financial and Emotional Decision Choosing between IUI and IVF is not just about money—it’s about medical suitability, age, diagnosis, and long-term success probability. If your case is mild and age is on your side, IUI may be a practical first step. But if time is critical or infertility factors are complex, IVF could provide faster and more reliable results despite the higher upfront cost. When exploring Low-cost infertility treatment in Delhi, consult a qualified fertility expert who can assess your unique situation and create a personalized plan that balances affordability with effectiveness.
Take the Next Step Book a consultation with a trusted fertility specialist in Delhi today. Understanding your fertility profile early can save you both money and emotional stress—bringing you one step closer to parenthood.
