Fertility Doctor Singapore: Your Guide to Assisted Reproduction

Introduction

Infertility is a common issue affecting millions of couples worldwide. In Singapore, 1 in 6 couples struggle to conceive. If you are facing infertility, seeking the help of a fertility doctor can significantly increase your chances of becoming parents.

What is a Fertility Doctor?

A fertility doctor, also known as a reproductive endocrinologist, is a medical professional specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. They have undergone extensive training in reproductive medicine and are experts in assisting couples with conceiving a child.

When to See a Fertility Doctor

Couples should consider seeing a fertility doctor if they have been trying to conceive for over a year without success. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of successful conception.

Common Causes of Infertility

Infertility can be caused by various factors, including:

• Female factors: Ovulation disorders, uterine problems, endometriosis
• Male factors: Low sperm count, poor sperm quality, erectile dysfunction
• Age: Fertility declines with age, especially after 35 in women
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity

Diagnosis and Treatment

A fertility doctor will typically begin with a comprehensive evaluation, including physical exams, blood tests, and ultrasound scans. Based on the diagnosis, they will recommend a personalized treatment plan, which may include:

Medication: Medications such as Clomid or Letrozole can stimulate ovulation.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm is directly placed into the uterus during ovulation.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized in the laboratory, and transferred back into the uterus.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is directly injected into an egg.

Other Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): Embryo transfer, gestational surrogacy, freezing and preservation of embryos.

Success Rates

The success rates of assisted reproductive technologies vary depending on factors such as age, type of infertility, and treatment protocol. However, as per the Singapore IVF Registry, the overall probability of achieving a live birth after IVF is around 30%.

Benefits of Seeing a Fertility Doctor

• Increased chances of conception
• Personalized treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
• Access to advanced reproductive technologies and procedures
• Emotional support and guidance throughout the fertility journey

Tips and Tricks

• Start tracking your menstrual cycle using a fertility app or chart.
• Aim for a healthy weight and avoid excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption.
• Get regular exercise and manage stress levels.
• Seek professional help if you have been trying to conceive for over a year.
• Stay informed about the latest advances in reproductive medicine.

FAQs

1. What is the cost of fertility treatment in Singapore?
   - The cost varies depending on the type of treatment and clinic, but can range from $8,000 to $25,000 per cycle.

2. Is fertility treatment covered by insurance?
   - Some insurance policies in Singapore do cover fertility treatments, but coverage varies depending on the provider and policy.

3. What are the emotional challenges of infertility?
   - Infertility can take an emotional toll on couples, leading to feelings of grief, loss, and frustration. Seeking support from a therapist or support group can be beneficial.

4. What are the ethical considerations in fertility treatment?
   - Fertility treatments raise ethical questions, such as the use of donor gametes and the potential for multiple births. Informed consent and open discussion with your fertility doctor are crucial.

5. What are the future trends in fertility treatment?
   - Advancements in reproductive medicine include genetic screening, artificial intelligence, and the use of stem cells to create functional gametes.

Table 1: Causes of Infertility

Table 2: Success Rates of ART

Table 3: Cost of Fertility Treatments

Table 4: Emotional Challenges of Infertility