FAQs on Infertility
How common is infertility in Singapore?
In Singapore, approximately 1 in 6 couples are affected by infertility. Of these cases, around 39% are due to female infertility factors and around 26% are due to male infertility factors. Finally, in the remaining of these cases, both the male and female have factors that contribute to infertility issues.
How is infertility treated?
There are various infertility treatments available for men and women alike. These can range from lifestyle changes and medications to surgery (usually to address gynaecological issues) and assisted reproductive technology (ART) such as in-vitro fertilisation (IVF).
What is the best treatment for infertility?
In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) is considered to be one of the most effective methods in treating infertility (in eligible patients), with a success rate of up to 32% for couples below 35 years old. During this process, the woman’s egg and the man’s sperm are carefully selected (based on quality) and fertilised in a Petri dish. If fertilisation is successful, the resulting embryo will be implanted into the woman’s uterus to trigger a pregnancy.
How can a woman increase her fertility?
Women can improve their fertility by maintaining a healthy body weight, taking prenatal vitamins, consuming healthy food, quitting smoking and drinking, and keeping themselves generally healthy and well-rested.
However, some factors cannot be controlled for, such as age and certain medical conditions. In such cases, seeking help from a gynaecologist or fertility doctor is strongly recommended.
Can male infertility be treated?
Male infertility is generally treatable through various methods, including lifestyle and dietary changes, medications, addressing sexual intercourse problems, and assisted reproductive technology (ART).
How can a man increase his fertility?
Aside from medical treatments, men can improve their fertility by maintaining an active lifestyle, consuming healthy food, managing stress, quitting smoking and drinking, keeping the testicles cool (e.g. not sitting all day with a hot laptop in one’s lap), and maintaining a healthy weight.
How can I test my fertility?
There are different tests that men and women can perform in order to test their fertility, ranging from blood tests and imaging tests, to semen analysis and tests to determine ovarian reserve and quality. When you attend a fertility screening, all of this – and possibly more – will be accounted for and tailored to your situation accordingly.