Arguments for and against intrauterine insemination versus in vitro fertilization/ICSI in cases of infertile couples with male factor are discussed. Several variables influencing the results must be considered prior to indicatingthe technique, including cost-benefit and proportionality of the therapy.

Objectives: To determine cost-effectiveness in homologous intrauterine insemination (IUI) outcomes in women 38 years or older in a human reproduction unit and compare results with those of women of similar age treated with complex assisted reproduction technology as published by the Latin American Assisted Reproductive Registry (RedLara) 2009. Design: Retrospective, comparative study. Setting: Unidad de Reproduccion Humana, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. Participants: Women treated with homologous intrauterine insemination. Interventions: Review of results obtained in 5 421 homologous intrauterine insemina tion cycles (IUI) performed between January 2000 and September 2011. In order to analyze the impact of advanced maternal age, we compared rates obtained in women younger than 38 years old (4 000 cycles) with those of women 38 years and older (1 421 cycles). ...

Objectives: To determine cost-effectiveness in homologous intrauterine insemination (IUI) outcomes in women 38 years or older in a human reproduction unit and compare results with those of women of similar age treated with complex assisted reproduction technology as published by the Latin American Assisted Reproductive Registry (RedLara) 2009. Design: Retrospective, comparative study. Setting: Unidad de Reproduccion Humana, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. Participants: Women treated with homologous intrauterine insemination. Interventions: Review of results obtained in 5 421 homologous intrauterine insemina tion cycles (IUI) performed between January 2000 and September 2011. In order to analyze the impact of advanced maternal age, we compared rates obtained in women younger than 38 years old (4 000 cycles) with those of women 38 years and older (1 421 cycles). ...

Arguments for and against intrauterine insemination versus in vitro fertilization/ICSI in cases of infertile couples with male factor are discussed. Several variables influencing the results must be considered prior to indicatingthe technique, including cost-benefit and proportionality of the therapy.