After completing three cycles of medication and undergoing intrauterine insemination (IUI) without success, would it be advisable to attempt another round of IUI or is it more beneficial to consider in vitro fertilization (IVF) as the next step?
So, the first 3 cycles of IUI have the best success rate (10% per IUI).
From the fourth IUI onwards, success goes down – 5-7% per IUI.
The main reason for this is that in couples with 3 failed IUIs, there is a high chance of a major issue with egg quality or sperm, due to which embryo formation (fertilization process) does not take place.
Such cases can be both diagnosed and corrected by IVF treatment. The success rate of IVF after multiple IUI failures is significantly higher, making it a more viable option.
In a nutshell, after three failed IUIs, it is better to go ahead with IVF. The success rate of IVF after multiple IUI failures provides a hopeful alternative for couples struggling with infertility.

Dr. Sankalp Singh (MBBS, MS – Obstetrics & Gynecology, FIRM, FRM – Germany) is a highly respected Reproductive Medicine and IVF specialist with over 20 years of clinical experience. He is the founder and chief consultant at Yaami Fertility & IVF Center, Indore, where he provides advanced fertility solutions including IUI, IVF, ICSI, and fertility preservation. Trained internationally, Dr. Singh combines global expertise with a compassionate approach to guide couples on their journey to parenthood. He is also deeply committed to academic teaching, clinical research, and spreading awareness about reproductive health and fertility treatments.