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Common Reasons for IUI Failure and What to Do Next

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is often the first fertility treatment recommended to couples trying to conceive. It is less invasive and more affordable than IVF, yet it can be highly effective when performed under the guidance of experienced fertility specialists.

However, like any fertility treatment, IUI does not guarantee success every time. Understanding why an IUI cycle may fail can help you make informed decisions about your next steps.

1. Poor Egg Quality

Egg quality declines with age, especially after 35. Poor-quality eggs may not fertilize properly, which can reduce IUI success rates.

What to Do Next

  • Consider ovarian stimulation in the next cycle.
  • Discuss if IVF may offer better outcomes, especially for women above 37.

2. Low Sperm Count or Poor Sperm Motility

Even though sperm is washed and concentrated during IUI, very low count or motility challenges fertilization.

What to Do Next

  • Repeat semen analysis to rule out temporary issues.
  • Explore lifestyle changes or medications recommended by your fertility specialist.
  • Ask whether IVF with ICSI may increase success chances.

3. Ovulation Issues

Irregular or absent ovulation makes timing the IUI difficult. If ovulation doesn’t occur properly, the cycle may fail.

What to Do Next

  • Use ovulation-inducing medications.
  • Track ovulation more closely in the next cycle.
  • Consider hormone testing to address underlying issues.

4. Fallopian Tube Blockage or Damage

Since IUI relies on open fallopian tubes, any blockage prevents sperm from reaching the egg.

What to Do Next

  • Have an HSG (Hysterosalpingogram) test to check tube patency.
  • If tubes are blocked, IVF might be the recommended treatment.

5. Endometrial Thickness Problems

A thin or unhealthy uterine lining can prevent embryo implantation.

What to Do Next

  • Treat hormonal imbalances.
  • Ask about supplements, medications, or therapies that improve lining quality.

6. Timing Errors

If insemination is not performed close to ovulation, chances of fertilization drop significantly.

What to Do Next

  • Monitor ovulation more precisely through ultrasound and blood tests.
  • Choose a clinic known for strong monitoring protocols—like the best IUI centre in Delhi, where cycles are tracked closely for optimal timing.

7. Unexplained Infertility

Around 20–30% of couples face unexplained infertility where no clear cause is identified. IUI may work, but sometimes multiple cycles are needed.

What to Do Next

  • Try 3–4 well-monitored IUI cycles.
  • If still unsuccessful, consider transitioning to IVF for higher success rates.

8. Lifestyle Factors

Stress, smoking, alcohol, high BMI, and poor sleep can all influence IUI outcomes.

What to Do Next

  • Adopt a fertility-friendly lifestyle.
  • Maintain healthy weight, reduce stress, and follow a balanced diet

When Should You Move to IVF?

Most fertility specialists recommend trying 3–6 IUI cycles depending on age, diagnosis, and treatment response. If IUI continues to fail despite good monitoring and medications, IVF can offer much higher success rates.

The best IUI centre in Delhi will guide you through each step—diagnostics, treatment planning, cycle monitoring, and deciding when it's time to move to IVF for better results.

Final Thoughts

IUI failure can be emotionally draining, but it doesn’t mean your fertility journey is over. With the right evaluation, treatment adjustments, and expert support, many couples go on to conceive successfully—either through subsequent IUI cycles or alternative assisted reproductive techniques.

If you're facing repeated IUI failures, consulting a reputed and experienced clinic like SCI IVF Hospital can help you receive personalized care and improve your chances of success.

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