IVF Treatment in Singapore

For some individuals and couples, achieving pregnancy may take longer than expected despite regular attempts to conceive. When fertility challenges are identified, assisted reproductive treatments such as in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) may be recommended.

IVF is a widely used fertility treatment that can help overcome a range of reproductive conditions affecting both men and women. At Irene & Jon Clinic for Women, Dr Jonathan Wee provides IVF in Singapore as part of a personalised approach to fertility care.

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What is In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)?

In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) that helps individuals and couples conceive when natural conception is difficult.

During IVF, mature eggs are collected from the ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a specialised laboratory. Once fertilisation occurs and embryos develop, one or more suitable embryos may be transferred into the uterus, where implantation and pregnancy can occur.

Who May Be Suitable for IVF?

IVF may be considered for individuals or couples experiencing difficulties conceiving despite regular unprotected intercourse. In general, fertility assessment is recommended if pregnancy has not occurred after 12 months of trying for women below 35 years old, or after six months for women aged 35 years and above.

Following evaluation, IVF may be recommended for certain fertility conditions, including:

• Blocked, damaged, or absent fallopian tubes
• Ovulation disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian insufficiency
• Endometriosis
• Male factor infertility, including low sperm count or reduced sperm quality
• Unexplained infertility
• Certain genetic conditions that may require assisted reproduction

IVF is a regulated fertility treatment in Singapore, and suitability depends on various medical and regulatory factors. Eligibility for treatment and available funding support may vary according to factors such as age, marital status, citizenship status, and individual clinical circumstances. Your fertility specialist can advise on whether IVF is appropriate for your situation and discuss the options available to you.

What to Expect During Your First IVF Consultation

Your first IVF consultation focuses on understanding your fertility history and determining the most appropriate treatment pathway.

During the appointment, your IVF doctor may:

• Review your medical and reproductive history
• Discuss previous fertility treatments
• Assess menstrual and ovulation patterns
• Arrange fertility investigations
• Review semen analysis results
• Explain potential treatment options
• Discuss IVF suitability and expected outcomes

This consultation provides an opportunity to ask questions and gain a clearer understanding of your fertility journey.

What Happens During an IVF Cycle?

Before beginning IVF, both partners typically undergo fertility investigations to assess reproductive health and identify factors that may influence treatment outcomes. This allows your IVF specialist to develop a personalised treatment plan and optimise your chances of success.

A typical IVF cycle involves several stages.

Step 1: Ovarian Stimulation

Fertility medications, administered either orally or by injection, are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs during a single treatment cycle. Producing several eggs increases the chances of obtaining mature eggs suitable for fertilisation, as not all eggs may develop or fertilise successfully.

This stage typically lasts one to two weeks and involves close monitoring by your IVF specialist to assess your response to treatment and determine the optimal timing for egg retrieval.

Monitoring may include:

• Transvaginal ultrasound scans to track the growth and development of ovarian follicles, where the eggs mature.
• Blood tests to measure hormone levels and monitor your response to ovarian stimulation medications.

Step 2: Egg Retrieval

After the eggs have matured, they are collected through a transvaginal ultrasound-guided egg retrieval procedure. Using ultrasound imaging for guidance, a fine needle is used to retrieve the eggs from the ovarian follicles.

The retrieval is performed under sedation and usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes. Most patients are able to return home on the same day, with any mild cramping or discomfort typically resolving within a short period.

Step 3: Sperm Collection

A sperm sample is usually provided by the male partner on the day of egg retrieval. In situations where sperm cannot be obtained through ejaculation, surgical sperm retrieval techniques may be considered. Previously frozen sperm or donor sperm may also be used when appropriate.

Step 4: Fertilisation and Embryo Development

The retrieved eggs and sperm are combined in the laboratory to facilitate fertilisation. Depending on the fertility circumstances, one of the following techniques may be used:

• Conventional IVF - The eggs and sperm are placed together in a laboratory culture dish, allowing fertilisation to occur naturally. The fertilised eggs are then monitored as they develop into embryos.
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) - ICSI involves injecting a single healthy sperm directly into a mature egg to achieve fertilisation. This technique may be recommended in cases of male factor infertility, previous fertilisation failure or when fertilisation rates are expected to be lower.
• Following fertilisation, the developing embryos are carefully monitored in the laboratory over several days to assess their growth and quality before embryo transfer.

Step 5: Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer is usually performed three to five days after fertilisation. A thin catheter is used to place the selected embryo into the uterus. The procedure is generally straightforward and does not usually require sedation. Following embryo transfer, patients can typically resume most normal daily activities while avoiding strenuous physical exertion for a short period.

How long does an IVF cycle take?

A complete IVF cycle typically takes approximately four to six weeks from ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer. The overall timeline may vary depending on individual treatment protocols, fertility investigations, medication response, and whether additional procedures are required before treatment begins. For some patients, the journey may take longer if preparatory treatments are required before the IVF cycle starts.

What Factors Affect IVF Success Rates?

IVF success rates vary from person to person and are influenced by several factors.

• Maternal Age - Age remains one of the most important factors affecting egg quality and pregnancy outcomes.
• Ovarian Reserve - The number and quality of remaining eggs can influence response to stimulation and embryo development.
• Cause of Infertility - Underlying fertility conditions affecting either partner may affect treatment outcomes.
• Sperm Quality - Underlying fertility conditions affecting either partner may affect treatment outcomes.
• Embryo Development - The quality and developmental potential of embryos play an important role in implantation success.
• Previous Pregnancy or IVF History - Past reproductive outcomes may provide useful information when planning treatment.
• Lifestyle Factors - Smoking, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption and other health factors may influence fertility and IVF outcomes.

What are the Risks and Side Effects of IVF?

Like all medical treatments, IVF carries some risks and side effects. Most are temporary and manageable.

Common side effects include:

• Breast tenderness
• Constipation
• Headaches
• Hot flushes
• Mild bloating or cramping
• Mood changes

Less common risks may include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), multiple pregnancy and complications associated with egg retrieval procedures. Your IVF specialist will discuss these risks during consultation.

How much does In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) in Singapore cost?

The cost of IVF treatment in Singapore varies depending on the treatment protocol, medications used and individual clinical requirements. In private fertility centres and hospitals, IVF typically costs between S$10,000 and S$20,000 or more per cycle.

The total cost may include fertility medications, laboratory procedures, egg retrieval, fertilisation techniques such as ICSI, embryo transfer and other investigations required during treatment. Additional procedures or medications may result in higher overall costs.

Eligible patients may be able to utilise MediSave and government co-funding schemes for assisted reproduction treatments, subject to prevailing regulations and eligibility criteria. Your IVF doctor and clinic staff can provide a more detailed cost estimate based on your treatment plan.

Why Choose Our Clinic for IVF?

• Personalised Fertility Care

  - Every fertility journey is unique. Treatment recommendations are tailored to your medical history, fertility goals, and individual circumstances.

• Experienced Fertility Specialist

  - Dr Jonathan Wee has experience managing a broad range of fertility concerns and reproductive health conditions.

• Comprehensive Assessment

  - We perform thorough fertility evaluations to identify factors that may affect conception and treatment outcomes.

• Continuity of Care

  - From consultation and investigation through to treatment planning and follow-up, you receive coordinated care throughout your fertility journey.

Personalised IVF Care for Your Fertility Goals

Navigating fertility challenges can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through the process alone. At Irene & Jon Clinic for Women in Singapore, Dr Jonathan Wee provides personalised guidance and evidence-based fertility care, helping patients understand their options and make informed decisions about IVF treatment.

Schedule a consultation with Dr Jonathan Wee to discuss your fertility goals and available treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About IVF

In addition to fertility care, Dr Wee has experience managing a range of gynaecological conditions that may affect reproductive health, including endometriosis, fibroids, and ovarian cysts.