| Procedure type | Sperm is placed directly into the womb around ovulation. | Eggs are collected, fertilised in a lab, and embryos are transferred into the womb. |
| Treatment approach | Minimally intervention-based; no surgical procedure required. | More involved; includes hormone stimulation, egg collection, and embryo transfer. |
| Cost | Lower cost per cycle. | Higher cost per cycle due to lab work and medications. |
| Success rates | Generally lower than IVF, especially for women over 35 or with underlying fertility issues. | Higher success rates, particularly for women with certain fertility challenges or after failed IUI. |
| Best for | Couples with mild fertility issues or unexplained infertility. | Couples with more complex fertility problems, failed IUI, low ovarian reserve, or older age. |
| Time to pregnancy | May require multiple cycles. | Typically faster results per cycle due to higher success rates per attempt. |