At Babynova, we know well the path to parenthood, which is sometimes marked by crucial choices.
For some couples, achieving pregnancy naturally may not be an option. Thankfully, the science of assisted reproduction offers two well-established paths: artificial insemination (AI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
While both artificial insemination (AI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) offer hope for those struggling to conceive, understanding their differences empowers couples to choose the approach that best suits their needs.
Artificial insemination (AI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are two assisted reproductive techniques that help couples who have difficulty conceiving naturally.
They vary in their complexity, level of intervention, and the situations for which they are most appropriate.
Artificial Insemination (AI), what is it?
AI is a relatively simple procedure that consists of placing high-quality sperm (which have been previously verified and analyzed in the laboratory) directly into the woman’s uterus during her fertile period.
It’s one of the simplest and least invasive conception techniques. Therefore, it is usually recommended as an initial option when there are fertility problems, such as:
- Cervical mucus incompatibility: in case that the cervical mucus hinders the passage of sperm.
- Mild difficulties in sperm motility: when the sperm have reduced motility.
Characteristics of in vitro fertilization (IVF)
In vitro fertilization, on the other hand, is a more complex process, because it involves the extraction of eggs from the woman’s ovaries and their subsequent fertilization with sperm in a specialized laboratory under controlled conditions.
IVF is considered particularly useful in more difficult situations, so it’s recommended in the following cases:
- Blocked fallopian tubes: when the fallopian tubes are blocked and prevent the egg from meeting the sperm.
- Severe sperm problems: in cases where the sperm count, motility, or morphology are severely abnormal.
- Failure of different assisted reproductive procedures: when other options such as artificial insemination have not been successful.
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) offers a unique advantage – preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). This technology makes it possible to analyze embryos before implantation to identify chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome. This significantly improves the chances of a healthy pregnancy and minimizes the risk of miscarriage.
Key differences between AI and IVF
Artificial insemination (AI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are distinguished mainly by the area where the fertilization of the egg takes place: in AI it occurs internally, inside the woman’s body, while in IVF it takes place in the laboratory, under special conditions.
This scenario allows the selection of the embryos with the highest potential, which improves the chances of achieving pregnancy.
AI seeks limited ovarian stimulation to avoid multiple pregnancies, using only one egg. IVF, on the other hand, requires more intense stimulation because it requires the collection of multiple eggs to increase the chances of successful fertilization.
In addition, the success rate also varies between the two techniques. AI has a lower success rate, around 15 to 20% because fertilization takes place inside the woman’s body, where there is no control over the path or quality of the egg, factors that can affect the outcome.
IVF can achieve success rates up to 50%, since it selects the eggs with the greatest potential for development and controls the environmental conditions during fertilization in the laboratory.
A hope against infertility
At Clinic Babynova, our commitment is to accompany and support you on your way to motherhood.
We know that every story is unique, every dream deserves to be nurtured with hope, and every step towards the desired family must be guarded with care and understanding.
No matter which procedure you select, artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization, our team of fertility specialists is here to hold your hand in every step of the way, to make your journey as smooth and joyful as possible.
Want to know more detailed information about our procedures or schedule a consultation to learn about your particular case? Keep exploring our blog or schedule an appointment on our website.