Assisted reproduction offers couples, single women and LGBTQ+ families a real chance to have their own child when natural conception does not occur. Whether it’s a minor cycle irregularity or a more serious fertility issue, reproductive medicine provides tailored procedures with steadily improving success rates. This article explains which methods are available, when they’re appropriate, what costs to expect and what risks to consider.
Fertilisation Methods: Quick Comparison
- ICI / IVI – At-Home Insemination
Sperm is deposited near the cervix using a syringe or small cup. Ideal for mild issues or donor sperm. Lowest cost, maximum privacy. - IUI – Intrauterine Insemination
Washed sperm are placed directly into the uterus via catheter. Suitable for moderate male-factor infertility, cervical issues or unexplained infertility. - IVF – In Vitro Fertilisation
Multiple stimulated eggs are combined with sperm in the laboratory. Standard for tubal-factor infertility or failed IUI cycles. - ICSI – Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
A single sperm is microinjected directly into the egg. Best for severe male infertility or TESE-retrieved sperm.
A private IVF cycle in the UK typically costs between £4,000 and £8,000. Depending on your local Integrated Care Board criteria, you may qualify for one to three NHS-funded cycles. NICE guidelines recommend up to three cycles for those under 40 and one cycle for ages 40–42, but final funding varies regionally.
When to Seek Medical Help
According to the WHO, infertility is defined as not conceiving after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse (six months for women over 35). You should see a specialist if these timeframes elapse without pregnancy. Common causes include:
- Hormonal disorders (e.g. PCOS, thyroid dysfunction)
- Blocked or absent fallopian tubes (tubal factor)
- Poor sperm quality
- Endometriosis or adenomyosis
- Age-related decline in ovarian reserve
- Unexplained (idiopathic) infertility
- Family building without a male partner
Success Rates by Age
The Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority reports average clinical pregnancy rates per fresh embryo transfer of 42 % for those aged 18–34, with a live birth rate of 35 % in 2022. Success rates decline with age:
- Age 25: ~42 % clinical pregnancy, ~35 % live birth
- Age 30: ~42 % clinical pregnancy, ~35 % live birth
- Age 35: ~34 % clinical pregnancy, ~26 % live birth
- Age 40: ~16 % clinical pregnancy, ~10 % live birth
After age 42, chances decline further and many UK clinics recommend egg donation.
Typical Risks and Side Effects
A Europe-wide report by ESHRE shows that single embryo transfer greatly reduces risks, but possible side effects include:
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): pain, nausea, fluid retention
- Mood swings: hormonal fluctuations
- Multiple pregnancy: if two embryos are transferred
- Minor bleeding or infection after egg retrieval
Personalised stimulation protocols and elective single embryo transfer help minimise these risks.
Other Factors Affecting Fertility
- Endometriosis, fibroids, adhesions
- Infections (e.g. chlamydia, gonorrhoea)
- Chronic stress, sleep deprivation, depression
- Smoking, alcohol use, extreme under- or overweight
- Idiopathic infertility despite normal tests
Assisted Reproduction for Lesbian Couples
Lesbian couples typically use donor sperm via IUI or IVF. The non-gestational partner must adopt the child subsequently. NHS funding does not generally cover these treatments for same-sex couples.
Sperm Donation with RattleStork – A Flexible Alternative
RattleStork connects intended parents with verified donors. Couples and individuals can plan at-home inseminations themselves—quickly, safely and affordably.
Conclusion
Modern reproductive medicine offers pathways to parenthood for almost every situation. Understanding causes, budgeting realistically and weighing risks allows you and your clinical team to choose the optimal method—from high-tech laboratory procedures to private sperm donation.