My IUI Medications

Intrauterine insemination (IUI), like most other fertility treatments, typically relies on medications to stimulate the production and release of eggs. Usually, Clomid (or its generic version clomiphene citrate) is the first drug prescribed to women who do not ovulate regularly. It is inexpensive and often effective. However, not everyone responds to it or can tolerate its side effects. In such cases, Clomid can be replaced with injectable medications to encourage the formation and ovulation of eggs.

IUI #1: The Clomid Experience

I was 38 when I first heard about reproductive endocrinologists and how they could help me. After nearly a decade of unsuccessful attempts to conceive, I was relieved to learn that I no longer had to resort to regular OB/GYN doctors, whose experiments with birth control pills never did make me fertile. I was also surprised to find out that both OB/GYN doctors and reproductive endocrinologists like to start a patient’s treatment conservatively—with a pill.

IUI vs. IVF: Cost Factor Revisited

When we are faced with multiple options, we typically consider not only their efficacy but also their cost. This is especially true with regard to assisted reproduction. Although the efficacy of a procedure can never be guaranteed, the cost can be substantial and, for many of us, even prohibitive. But is the least expensive option necessarily the first line of action you should pursue? The answer often depends on your age.