When couples begin exploring fertility treatments, two procedures come up most frequently: intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Both are effective, well-established treatments, but they differ significantly in approach, cost, success rates, and ideal candidates. In 2026, San Diego’s fertility specialists offer both options with highly personalized protocols designed to maximize your chances of success.
What Is IUI?
Intrauterine insemination involves placing specially prepared sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. The procedure is minimally invasive, typically takes just a few minutes, and involves little to no discomfort. IUI is often recommended for couples with mild male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, or those using donor sperm. It is generally the first-line fertility treatment because of its lower cost and low-risk profile.
What Is IVF?
In vitro fertilization is a more complex process in which eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a lab, and the resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus. IVF is recommended when there are issues such as blocked fallopian tubes, severe male factor infertility, advanced maternal age, or when previous IUI cycles have been unsuccessful.
The Fertility Institute of San Diego offers both IUI and IVF with customized protocols for each patient. Their team of board-certified reproductive endocrinologists evaluates every case individually to recommend the most appropriate starting point — ensuring you neither over-treat nor under-treat your fertility challenges.
Comparing Success Rates
IUI success rates per cycle typically range from 10% to 20% depending on age and diagnosis, while IVF success rates can range from 40% to 60% or higher for younger patients with good embryo quality. For women over 40 or those with low ovarian reserve, success rates for both procedures decline, though IVF treatment San Diego with donor eggs can restore higher success rates regardless of age.
Cost Considerations in San Diego
IUI is considerably less expensive than IVF, often costing between $500 and $2,000 per cycle including monitoring. IVF, by contrast, typically ranges from $12,000 to $20,000 per cycle in San Diego, with additional costs for medications, genetic testing, and embryo freezing. Many clinics offer multi-cycle packages or financing options to make treatment more accessible.
Making the Decision
The right treatment depends on your diagnosis, age, prior treatment history, and personal preferences. A detailed fertility workup — including ovarian reserve testing, semen analysis, and uterine evaluation — gives your doctor the data needed to make a well-informed recommendation. To get started, contact the team at the best fertility clinic in San Diego and schedule your initial fertility consultation.
Vilma Hahn is an Alaskan native who has been blogging about life in the most Northern state for over 10 years. As a freelance writer, Vilma has traveled extensively through Alaska, collecting stories and experiences to share on her blog. She shares stories about hiking and camping, visiting small towns, and outdoor adventures. Vilma loves to share her enthusiasm for life in Alaska and hopes to encourage people from all over the world to visit the 49th state.