Considering in vitro fertilisation? From understanding the entire process to tackling common concerns, we unpack all you need to know about IVF in Singapore.
When it comes to discussions on fertility, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a term that often pops up in conversation. A different path towards parenthood, IVF is another glimmer of hope for those struggling with infertility – and yes, this includes those who have had a natural pregnancy previously. But understanding the process can be overwhelming. In this beginner’s guide to IVF in Singapore, we speak to fertility specialists from IVF(SG) to break down the basics of this fertility treatment, answer burning questions, and get you up to speed. Keep reading to find out more about whether IVF is for you.
All you need to know about IVF in Singapore
What is IVF?
It refers to a fertility treatment where the eggs are fertilised by sperm outside the body in a laboratory setting. Thereafter, the fertilised egg (aka an embryo) is transferred back into the woman’s uterus to achieve pregnancy.
What does the IVF process entail and how long does it take?
The IVF process can be simplified into four overarching steps and take anywhere from two to six weeks.
Step 1: Ovarian stimulation; where a woman will take fertility medication to stimulate her ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
Step 2: Egg retrieval; a minor surgical procedure to remove mature eggs from the woman’s ovaries.
Step 3: Fertilisation; the retrieved eggs are combined with sperm in a lab, and the fertilised eggs (embryos) are allowed to grow for a few days.
Step 4: Embryo transfer; one or more embryos are placed in the woman’s uterus with the goal of implantation and pregnancy.
How do I know if I am eligible for IVF?
IVF is recommended for heterosexual couples with infertility issues, those with genetic disorders and medical conditions which affect fertility, as well as those with secondary infertility. This last group refers to those who struggle to conceive despite having a natural pregnancy before. Having successfully conceived one, it’s natural to assume that you’ll have little to worry about when planning for your next child. But this may not always be the case.
According to the specialists, it’s also recommended for couples who have been trying to conceive for 12 months if the female partner is below 35 years of age, or six months if the female partner is aged 36 or above.
Both partners will have to undergo fertility assessments to determine the cause of the infertility. For women, these include blood tests that show how many eggs are left in your ovaries and examine your thyroid health, followed by a pelvic ultrasound scan. Meanwhile, men have to go through semen analysis, which will examine the number of sperm, as well as their size, shape, and ability to move through a woman’s reproductive tract and fertilise an egg.
Based on the infertility diagnosis, eligible reasons for IVF include tubal blockage (where the woman has blocked or damaged fallopian tubes), ovulation disorders (irregular or no ovulation), endometriosis, as well as male infertility (including low sperm count, poor sperm motility or sperm morphology issues). The clinic will also consider factors like age, with most having an upper age limit of 40 to 45, overall health and medical history, and the availability of healthy eggs and sperm.
Conversely, are there specific demographics that may not be suitable for IVF? According to the specialists, individuals with certain medical conditions that make a pregnancy high-risk, like severe heart disease and uncontrolled diabetes, are not advised to go for it. As IVF treatment can be emotionally and physically demanding, it’s also not recommended for those with mental health issues as it may impact their ability to cope.
Cost, success rate and risks: Your IVF concerns answered
1. How much does IVF treatment cost in Singapore?
Now that the basics of this fertility treatment are out of the way, it’s time to get answers to your burning concerns about IVF. Starting with the elephant in the room: cost. While prices and services vary from clinic to clinic, a full IVF cycle treatment in Singapore can cost $10,000 and upwards.
For instance, IVF(SG) offers a $13,888 package, which consists of all consultations, ultrasound scans, blood tests, and medications required for egg retrieval for the first embryo transfer. If additional embryo transfers are needed following a stimulated cycle, the clinic offers a frozen egg transfer (FET) only package at $5,388, inclusive of consultations, medications required for FET, theatre and recovery fees, laboratory charges and blood tests.
2. What’s the success rate of IVF and are there any risks?
Before taking the leap into IVF, it’s common to wonder how realistic are your chances of parenthood. The specialists from IVF(SG) reveal that success can vary depending on factors like a woman’s age, the cause of infertility, and the clinic’s experience. On average, the success rate for a single IVF cycle is around 30% to 40% for women under 35 and decreases with age.
It’s also important to understand the risks that come with the treatment. Common risks include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, as well as potential discomforts such as mild abdominal pain, bloating, and fatigue from egg retrieval or embryo transfer procedures.
3. How can I best choose an IVF clinic?
Wondering how to select a clinic out of those offering IVF in Singapore? Consider factors like the success and live birth rates; the experience and expertise of the medical team; the type of medical technologies and treatments available; and the clinic’s approach to patient communication and support.
With practicality in mind, you also want to consider costs, whether you’re able to use MediSave, and the location of the clinic. When your IVF treatment kicks off, you’ll appreciate having somewhere that’s close by or convenient to access. And be sure to browse through reviews from past patients, too. It always helps to hear from those who have been through the process.
Hear from the fertility specialists
With practical concerns and burning questions answered, let IVF(SG) dish out some final pro tips. As a general rule of thumb, preparation is key. This involves understanding the entire process, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and managing your emotions and expectations.
Tip 1: Educate yourself on the stages of IVF, medication needed and the typical four to six week cycle. As a start, reading guides like this will go a long way!
Tip 2: Prioritise fertility health with a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and prenatal vitamins (like folic acid), while avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol. Be prepared to take time to rest at home, if necessary.
Tip 3: Manage your expectations. The first transfer may not always result in pregnancy so it’s best to be prepared for more than one cycle before pregnancy can occur.
Tip 4: Emotional readiness is key. Ensure you have emotional support, especially from your spouse, family, and friends or a counsellor to help manage the ups and downs.
Tip 5: Maintain open communication with your fertility team. As every patient is unique, communicate your concerns or progress at every point to ensure the treatment plans work for you.
Have more burning questions to be answered? Let the team at IVF(SG) offer their expertise. With a focus on personalised care and structured IVF protocols, this clinic offers a comprehensive approach to fertility treatment in Singapore. Coupled with straightforward pricing and a dedicated care team, you’ll be supported at every step of the fertility treatment journey.
Book a consultation with the team at IVF(SG) to learn more.
This post is in partnership with IVF(SG).
