One of the fertility treatments most often suggested to couples having trouble conceiving is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). It is a straightforward, less invasive method that increases the likelihood of the sperm meeting the egg by introducing the processed sperm to the uterus around the time of ovulation. IUI is generally considered as an initial fertility treatment for cases of slight infertility and thus, a large number of couples get their hopes up through IUI before resorting to more complicated treatments such as IVF. In this article, we understand about Intrauterine insemination and benefits, also comparing the IUI treatment cost in UAE cities and with other countries.
What is IUI Treatment?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a method of fertility treatment where sperm, after being prepared, are delivered directly to the uterus at the time of ovulation. IUI raises the likelihood of fertilization by getting rid of the cervix and focusing the sperm that are healthy and motile. The method is easy, fast, and usually, there is no pain, it is done in a clinic without anesthesia. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) may be carried out either during a natural cycle or together with ovulation-inducing drugs to double the chances of success. IUI is commonly chosen as a treatment for fertility problems related to mild male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, ovulation irregularities, or when donor sperm is involved. Several cycles may be necessary according to age, diagnosis, and individual response as well as fertility goals.
Key Benefits of the IUI Treatment
Cover some benefits of the IUI treatments:
- Less Invasive: Since it doesn’t involve surgery or anesthesia, the body benefits much more with this method than with IVF.
- Cost-Effective: The difference in price between IUI and IVF is so great that fertility treatments are now accessible to many couples who previously couldn’t afford them.
- Improved Sperm Delivery: Sperm is separated and concentrated prior to being directly introduced to the uterus in order to give sperm a “head start” in their journey to the egg.
- Optimizes the Timing of Fertilization: Intrauterine insemination/IUI is conducted exactly during ovulation which significantly increases the chances of fertilization.
- Physical & Emotional Strain Lessened: Fewer hormonal injections and less hospital visits contribute to less stress when compared to the stress level of IVF treatment.
- Can be a Good Solution for Certain Conditions: It acts as a perfect solution path for people having unexplained infertility, slight male factor infertility (low sperm count/poor motility), or problems with cervical mucus.
- Stepping Stone to Advanced Treatments: This method gives the couple helpful information and serves as a practice session that gets them ready for IVF in case IUI fails.
What is the Cost of IUI Treatment in UAE?
The cost of IUI treatment extend according to the infertile couple’s flexibility and the complexity of their case. IUI treatment cost in the UAE ranges from AED. 1,280 to AED. 2,200 (350 USD – 600 USD). Besides the cost of IUI, one can also consider the number of cycles required for conception. Moreover, when compared to other fertility treatments, the success rate of IUI treatment is higher and the price is more affordable.
IUI Treatment Cost in Different Cities of UAE
Breakdown the cost of IUI Treatment in the major cities of the UAE:
City | IUI Cost per Cycle (AED) |
| Dubai | 2,500 – 7,000 |
| Abu Dhabi | 2,500 – 6,500 |
| Sharjah | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Ajman | 2,000 – 4,500 |
| Ras Al Khaimah | 1,800 – 4,000 |
| Umm Al Quwain | 1,800 – 3,500 |
| Fujairah | 1,800 – 4,000 |
IUI Treatment Cost in Other Countries
Here is the approximate cost of IUI treatment in different countries:
| Country | IUI Cost per Cycle (AED) | IUI Cost per Cycle (USD) |
| India | AED 440 – AED 2,205 | $120 – $600 |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | AED 1,840 – AED 4,410 | $500 – $1,200 |
| Thailand | AED 1,100 – AED 1,840 | $300 – $500 |
| Canada | AED 1,100 – AED 5,500 | $300 – $1,500 |
| United Kingdom (UK) | AED 3,680 – AED 11,040 | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Australia | AED 5,150 – AED 5,890 | $1,400 – $1,600 |
| United States (USA) | AED 1,840 – AED 14,720+ | $500 – $4,000 |
Note:
- Costs are approximate and depend on clinic, technology, and patient condition.
- The UAE is more affordable compared to the USA & Australia.
Factors Affecting IUI Treatment Cost
Decode some factors that affect the cost of IUI treatment
- Patient’s Age: As we know, our age plays a crucial role in any treatment, such as in the IUI, younger women need fewer cycles compared to older women, that age approximately 35 or 40. They need more cycles and higher expenses.
- Type of Infertility: There are so many types of infertility, but in the situation of underlying fertility issues patient required specific tests and treatments
- Clinic and Locations: The UAE has a lot of premium clinics and is situated in a prime location. They generally charge more than budget facilities.
- Number of Cycles: The total cost gets tripled if the treatment is done in three cycles, but on the other hand, there are clinics that offer package deals for multiple cycles.
- Medications: The price of medicines changes depending on whether the patient takes oral drugs (Clomid, for example) or injectable hormones (gonadotropins, for example) for ovulation stimulation.
- Diagnostic Tests: Performing blood tests, semen analysis, and repeated follicular monitoring ultrasounds will increase the cost.
- Doctor’s Expertise: Highly skilled fertility specialists normally charge higher consultation fees.
- Sperm Source: Extra costs are involved if donor sperm is used or if advanced sperm preparation is required (e.g, DNA fragmentation testing).
- Additional Services: The price goes up with the use of some optional services like sperm freezing or specific trigger injections.
Risks of IUI Treatment
Before selecting the IUI treatment, go through these steps:
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): Finding ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a bit of a needle in a haystack. However, if you find it, this is a very dangerous side effect of fertility drugs where the ovaries become very tender and swollen and in addition to that, you could also experience nausea and bloating.
- Multiple Pregnancies: Fertility drugs cause your body to be capable of releasing more eggs hence twins or triplets. Also, it create high risks for premature birth and low birth weight.
- Mild Discomfort: At the same time, you may experience fertility drugs-induced mood swings, hot flashes, headaches, and breast tenderness.
- Infection: A very slim chance that you get an infection after catheter insertion but clinics normally practice really good hygiene to avoid the situation.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: The probability of such a thing happening is indeed quite low but knowing about it will do you no harm. The trouble with this is that the fertilized ovum in this situation gets implanted outside of the uterus.
Conclusion
IUI treatment is a fertility solution that is possible and within the budget of couples who face certain reproductive problems. It causes less physical, emotional, and financial stress, it is still a popular initial step in the fertility journey for couples all over the world. And we know the advantages, prices, and the factors that affect the treatment will enable couples to decide wisely and plan their fertility journey in a very confident and transparent way.