IUI vs ICI: Short Version
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is performed by a healthcare provider in a clinic setting. Sperm is washed, loaded into a syringe, and placed directly into the uterus using a thin catheter. Washing is necessary to remove components of the semen that cause uterine cramping. Usually, a single IUI is sufficient. Success rates are based on age and range from 10-18% per cycle for women under 40.
Intracervical Insemination (ICI) is performed by placing sperm into the vagina near the cervix using either unwashed or washed sperm. Success rates comparable to IUI are observed when 2 inseminations are performed per cycle.
Read the larger guides
This short version is only a quick comparison. Use the guides below for the fuller treatment-planning context.
Read the full treatment-planning guide that compares the broader starting points, trade-offs, and best-fit situations.
Go deeper on OPK timing, the fertile window, and why home ICI and clinic IUI are not scheduled the same way.
Follow the full step-by-step at-home ICI process from shipment handling through thawing and insemination timing.