IVF Treatment in Singapore: A Complete Guide by Accredited IVF Specialists

Key Takeaways

• IVF retrieves eggs, fertilises them with sperm in a lab, and transfers an embryo to the uterus. A cycle usually takes about four to six weeks.
• In Singapore, IVF is available only to legally married couples, with no upper age limit since 2020.
• IVF outcomes vary with age, ovarian reserve, sperm factors, embryo development, uterine health, and the underlying cause of infertility.
• A consultation with an accredited IVF specialist can help determine whether IVF suits your circumstances.

Introduction

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure in which eggs are retrieved from a woman’s ovaries, fertilised with sperm in a controlled laboratory environment, and the resulting embryos transferred into the uterus with the goal of achieving pregnancy.

IVF is one of the most well-established fertility treatments available, and it has helped millions of individuals and couples worldwide become parents since the first successful IVF birth in 1978.

At The O&G Specialist Clinic, our team of MOH-accredited IVF specialists provides personalised fertility care across three clinic locations in Singapore. Led by Dr. Loh Seong Feei, a founding doctor of the IVF unit at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKIVF), our clinic combines over 100 years of combined specialist experience with an evidence-based, patient-centred approach to IVF treatment.

Singapore’s resident total fertility rate (TFR) fell to a record low of 0.87 in 2025, down from 0.97 in 2024, according to the Department of Statistics. As more couples turn to assisted reproduction, understanding the IVF process, its eligibility criteria under Singapore’s regulations, the realistic success rates, and the available financial support can help them make informed decisions about fertility care.

When Should You Consider IVF Treatment in Singapore?

IVF is usually considered when natural conception has not happened after a sustained period of trying, or when a specific medical condition makes conception unlikely without help. A fertility specialist will recommend IVF only after assessing both partners, since the cause of infertility can lie with either or both.

The situations below are the most common reasons IVF may be discussed.

Blocked or Damaged Fallopian Tubes

The fallopian tubes are where egg and sperm normally meet. When both tubes are blocked, scarred, or damaged, for example by past infection, previous surgery, or endometriosis, natural fertilisation may not be possible. IVF bypasses the tubes by fertilising the egg in the laboratory and placing the embryo directly into the uterus, making it a treatment option for tubal factor infertility.

Male Factor Infertility

Male factors contribute to roughly half of all infertility cases, so a semen analysis is a standard early test. A low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal sperm shape can all reduce the chance of natural conception. IVF may be combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), in which a single healthy sperm is injected directly into an egg to support fertilisation when sperm quality is significantly reduced.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic environment, lowering fertility. When endometriosis is moderate to severe, or when surgery and other treatments have not led to pregnancy, IVF may be recommended. Other structural concerns may also be assessed during a fertility work-up, including uterine abnormalities that affect fertility.

Ovulation Disorders, Including PCOS

Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause irregular or absent ovulation, making it difficult to time conception naturally. When treatments such as ovulation induction or IUI have not led to pregnancy, IVF allows the specialist to plan egg maturation, retrieval, and fertilisation within a treatment cycle.

Diminished Ovarian Reserve and Age-Related Decline

Egg quantity and quality decline with age, particularly after 35, and some younger women also have a reduced ovarian reserve. IVF allows several eggs to be retrieved and fertilised during one cycle, which may be considered when the monthly window for conception is limited. Ovarian reserve is assessed through an AMH blood test and an antral follicle count on ultrasound, helping the specialist plan the treatment protocol.

Unexplained Infertility

In some couples, standard tests do not identify a clear cause even though pregnancy has not occurred. This is known as unexplained infertility. When timed intercourse and intrauterine Insemination (IUI) have not led to pregnancy, IVF may be discussed because the laboratory process can also provide information about fertilisation and embryo development.

Previous Failed Fertility Treatments

IVF may be recommended after one or several IUI cycles have not resulted in pregnancy, depending on age, test findings, the cause of infertility, and treatment history. An unsuccessful cycle does not determine the outcome of a later attempt. Your specialist will review the response and discuss whether any change in approach is appropriate.

Known Genetic Conditions in the Family

Couples who carry an inheritable genetic condition, or who have had a child or pregnancy affected by one, may consider IVF so that embryos can undergo pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT). This is explained further in the eligibility and regulations section below.

IVF Eligibility and Regulations in Singapore

IVF in Singapore is closely regulated by the Ministry of Health (MOH) under the licensing requirements for assisted reproduction services. Knowing the rules in advance helps couples plan their treatment with realistic expectations.

Legal Marriage Requirement

Under current regulations, IVF is available to legally married couples at public and private fertility centres. Single women may freeze their eggs within the applicable eligibility framework but frozen eggs may only be used for conception after the woman is legally married. This is an important distinction for anyone considering fertility preservation.

Age and IVF in Singapore

Since 2020, there has been no upper age limit for women undergoing IVF in Singapore, following MOH’s removal of the previous cap of 45. However, treatment still requires an individual assessment of ovarian reserve, medical history, general health, and pregnancy-related risks. IVF outcomes also decline with age.

Number of Treatment Cycles

There is no legal cap on the total number of IVF cycles a couple may attempt privately. Government co-funding at public assisted reproduction centres covers up to three fresh and three frozen ART cycles for eligible couples.

MediSave use follows a separate framework. A couple may withdraw up to S$6,000 for Cycle 1, S$5,000 for Cycle 2, and S$4,000 for Cycle 3 and each subsequent cycle, subject to a lifetime withdrawal limit of S$15,000 per patient. Treatment suitability should still be reviewed after each cycle because age, clinical findings, and the response to treatment may affect the expected outcome

Embryo Transfer Limits

To reduce the risks associated with high-order multiple pregnancies, a maximum of two embryos may generally be transferred in one IVF cycle in Singapore. The number transferred is decided according to the woman’s age, embryo development, and clinical history. A single embryo transfer may be discussed when it is clinically appropriate.

Gender Selection

Selecting an embryo’s sex for social or non-medical reasons is not permitted under Singapore law. Testing related to a sex-linked genetic condition may be performed when there is a medical indication and the relevant requirements have been met.

Accredited IVF Specialists

IVF in Singapore must be carried out through a licensed assisted reproduction service under practitioners accredited for assisted reproduction. At The O&G Specialist Clinic, our care is led by Dr Loh Seong Feei, alongside accredited specialists including Dr Janice Tung, Dr Tan Shu Qi, Dr Marianne Hendricks, and Dr Lee Jiah Min.

The IVF Procedure in Singapore: A Step-by-Step Overview

The IVF procedure involves a series of coordinated medical steps carried out over approximately four to six weeks per cycle. The exact timeline varies with the treatment protocol, ovarian response, embryo development, and whether transfer takes place during the same cycle or later.

Step 1. Initial Consultation and Fertility Assessment

Before starting an IVF cycle, a thorough fertility assessment is conducted. This typically includes blood tests to evaluate hormone levels and ovarian reserve, an ultrasound scan to assess the ovaries and uterine lining, and a semen analysis for the male partner. Additional investigations may be recommended according to the couple’s medical history and symptoms.

Based on these findings, your IVF specialist will develop a personalised treatment plan. A virtual consultation is available for patients who wish to discuss their concerns before attending an in-person appointment.

Step 2. Ovarian Stimulation

The IVF cycle begins with ovarian stimulation, during which the patient is prescribed injectable hormones, often follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple follicles in one menstrual cycle. This phase usually starts around Day 2 of the menstrual cycle and typically lasts 10 to 12 days.

During this period, regular blood tests and ultrasound scans are performed to monitor follicle growth and the body’s response to the medication. The dosage may be adjusted based on the monitoring results.

Step 3. Trigger Injection and Final Maturation

When the follicles reach an appropriate size, a trigger injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or a GnRH agonist is administered to support final egg maturation and prepare for retrieval. Egg retrieval is usually scheduled about 34 to 36 hours after the trigger injection so that mature eggs can be collected at the planned time.

Step 4. Egg Retrieval (Oocyte Pick-Up)

Egg retrieval is a minimally invasive procedure performed under light sedation in the fertility clinic. Using transvaginal ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is passed through the vaginal wall into the ovaries to collect the follicular fluid containing the eggs.

The procedure usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, and patients typically rest at the clinic for one to two hours before going home. On the same day, a fresh semen sample may be collected from the male partner, or a frozen sample may be thawed for use.

Step 5. Fertilisation

In the laboratory, the collected eggs and prepared sperm are combined for fertilisation. Two methods are commonly used:

Conventional IVF involves placing a measured quantity of prepared sperm with each egg in a culture dish, allowing the sperm to fertilise the egg naturally.

ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) involves selecting a single sperm and injecting it directly into the cytoplasm of an egg using specialised microinjection equipment. ICSI may be recommended when there is male factor infertility, low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or when previous IVF cycles did not result in fertilisation.

Your fertility specialist will determine which fertilisation method is most appropriate based on the clinical circumstances.

Step 6. Embryo Culture and Development

After fertilisation, the resulting embryos are cultured in a controlled incubator. Embryologists monitor the embryos over a period of three to five days, assessing their cell division, growth rate, and overall quality.

By Day 5, embryos that have developed well typically reach the blastocyst stage, which is considered the optimal stage for transfer. Embryo grading helps the team decide which embryo may be considered for transfer or cryopreservation (freezing), but it does not guarantee implantation or pregnancy.

Step 7. Embryo Transfer

Embryo transfer is a brief, minimally invasive procedure that usually does not require sedation. A thin, soft catheter is used to place the selected embryo, or embryos within the permitted limit, into the uterus under ultrasound guidance.

The procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and patients are advised to rest briefly at the clinic before resuming light daily activities.

Step 8. Luteal Phase Support and Pregnancy Test

After embryo transfer, patients are prescribed progesterone supplementation, which may be given as pessaries, injections, or oral medication, to support the uterine lining. Around two weeks after the transfer, a blood test is performed to measure hCG levels and determine whether pregnancy has occurred.

If the result is positive, an early pregnancy ultrasound scan is arranged two to three weeks later to assess the viability and location of the pregnancy.

What is ICSI and When is it Used in IVF?

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection is a specialised laboratory technique used alongside IVF when male factor infertility is a concern or when standard IVF fertilisation has previously resulted in limited or no fertilisation. Rather than allowing the sperm to fertilise the egg naturally in a culture dish, ICSI involves selecting a single healthy sperm and injecting it directly into the egg under high magnification.

ICSI may be recommended in the following situations:

• Low sperm count or concentration
• Poor sperm motility or morphology
• Use of surgically retrieved sperm (such as in cases of obstructive azoospermia)
• Prior IVF cycles with limited or no fertilisation
• Low number of retrieved eggs

At our IVF clinic, the decision is made by the fertility specialist and embryologist based on the semen analysis results and clinical context.

Pre-implantation Genetic Testing (PGT) in IVF

Pre-implantation genetic testing is performed on embryos created through IVF before they are transferred to the uterus. It can provide information about a specified genetic condition or chromosome finding, depending on the type of test used.

There are three main types of PGT:

PGT-A (aneuploidy screening) assesses sampled embryo cells for the number of chromosomes. Chromosomal abnormalities are a common contributor to miscarriage and implantation failure, particularly in women over 35.

PGT-M (monogenic disorder testing) is used when one or both partners carry a known single-gene disorder, such as thalassemia or cystic fibrosis. It assesses embryos for the specified familial genetic variant.

PGT-SR (structural rearrangement testing) may be used when one partner carries a chromosomal structural rearrangement, such as a translocation or inversion.

In Singapore, PGT-M and PGT-SR became regulated mainstream clinical services on 4 May 2021. They may only be performed by MOH-approved assisted reproduction centres, for specified hereditary conditions. MOH approval is required when testing is proposed for a condition outside the published list.

PGT usually involves a biopsy of cells from an embryo at the blastocyst stage, followed by analysis at a genetics laboratory. Results typically take one to two weeks, during which the embryos are cryopreserved.

IVF Success Rates in Singapore

Understanding how IVF statistics are reported can help patients set realistic expectations. Outcomes are influenced by multiple factors, including age, ovarian reserve, the underlying cause of infertility, embryo quality, and lifestyle factors.

National ART Success Rates (MOH Data)

According to data published by the MOH in a January 2024 parliamentary response, the average ART success rates in Singapore from 2017 to 2021 across both public and private centres were as follows:

MOH noted that the reported rates for public and private centres were comparable.

Our Clinic’s IVF Pregnancy Rate

Based on data from egg retrievals carried out since 2016, The O&G Specialist Clinic has reported an overall IVF pregnancy rate of approximately 60%.

However, it is important to note that individual outcomes also vary according to factors such as age, ovarian reserve, sperm quality, embryo development, the underlying cause of infertility and general health. During consultation, your IVF specialist can explain how these factors relate to your circumstances and provide an individual assessment based on your medical history and test results.

Factors That Affect IVF Success

While no fertility treatment can guarantee pregnancy, several factors influence the outcome of an IVF cycle, with their relevance varying between patients.

The Woman’s Age

Age is closely associated with egg quantity and chromosome status. Egg quantity and quality generally decline over time, especially after 35. The national data for 2017 to 2021 shows that average ART success rates declined from 24.0% for women below 30 to 6.4% for women aged 40 and above.

Starting assessment earlier, when clinically appropriate, may preserve a wider range of treatment pathways.

Ovarian Reserve

Ovarian reserve refers to the remaining pool of eggs and is assessed through an AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) blood test and an antral follicle count on ultrasound. These tests help estimate how the ovaries may respond to stimulation and how many eggs may be retrieved.

Embryo Quality

Embryos are graded by embryologists according to their development, cell division pattern, and appearance. Grading helps guide decisions about transfer and freezing, but it does not determine whether an embryo will implant.

Where clinically indicated, genetic testing may provide additional information before transfer, subject to its limitations and the applicable regulations.

Uterine and Endometrial Health

For an embryo to implant, the uterus and its lining need to be healthy and receptive. Conditions such as fibroids, polyps, adhesions, adenomyosis, or concerns involving the endometrial lining may affect the approach taken before embryo transfer.

When fibroids are identified, the need for monitoring or fibroid removal depends on their size, location, symptoms, and relationship to the uterine cavity.

Sperm Quality

Sperm health also affects fertility. A semen analysis measures sperm count, motility, and morphology. Where male factor infertility is identified, ICSI may be used to support fertilisation by injecting one sperm into a mature egg.

The doctor may also discuss health conditions and daily habits that could affect sperm production or function.

Lifestyle Factors

Maintaining a healthy body weight, eating a balanced diet, staying physically active at a moderate level, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol can support general and reproductive health. These steps do not guarantee an IVF outcome, but they may form part of preparation for treatment.

Patients should also review prescription medicines, non-prescription products, and supplements with their doctor before beginning a cycle.

How Much Does IVF Cost in Singapore?

The cost of IVF treatment in Singapore varies depending on whether care is received in a public or private setting, the treatment protocol, medication dosage, and whether procedures such as ICSI, embryo freezing, or PGT are required.

Estimated IVF Cost Range

At a private IVF clinic in Singapore, a single IVF cycle typically costs between S$10,000 and S$20,000. Fees may include consultations, ovarian stimulation medication, monitoring scans and blood tests, egg retrieval, laboratory fertilisation, embryo culture, and embryo transfer.

Costs at public hospitals may be lower after government co-funding, subject to eligibility criteria.

Using MediSave for IVF

Couples may withdraw from MediSave to help pay for IVF and other assisted conception procedures at eligible public and private centres. The prevailing withdrawal limits are:

• Cycle 1: S$6,000
• Cycle 2: S$5,000
• Cycle 3 and each subsequent cycle: S$4,000
• Lifetime withdrawal limit: S$15,000 per patient

MediSave may be withdrawn from the patient’s account or the patient’s spouse’s account, subject to eligibility, available balance, and prevailing rules.

Government Co-funding for IVF

Eligible couples undergoing ART at public assisted reproduction (AR) centres may receive up to 75% in government co-funding, subject to citizenship-based caps, for up to three fresh and three frozen ART cycles.

At least one spouse must be a Singapore Citizen at the start of the ART cycle, and the woman must be below 40 years of age at the start of the cycle, although up to two of the six co-funded cycles may be used from age 40 when ART or IUI was attempted before that age. The couple must also meet the clinical requirements assessed by a doctor.

Patients considering IVF at a private fertility clinic should discuss MediSave use, estimated costs, and payment arrangements during consultation.

IVF vs. IUI: Which Fertility Treatment is Right for You?

Choosing between IVF and IUI depends on the underlying cause of infertility, the woman’s age, ovarian reserve, sperm findings, and the couple’s treatment history.

IUI treatment is a less invasive procedure in which prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. It may be suitable for couples with unexplained infertility, mild male factor issues, or ovulatory disorders, provided the fallopian tubes and other relevant factors allow fertilisation to occur within the body.

IUI may be considered before IVF when there is no clear indication to proceed directly to IVF. The number of attempts varies according to age, diagnosis, and treatment response.

IVF is typically recommended when IUI has not resulted in pregnancy after several cycles, when the fallopian tubes are blocked or severely damaged, when male factor infertility is significant, when regulated embryo testing is indicated, or when the woman’s age or ovarian reserve suggests that a more direct approach may improve outcomes.

Your fertility specialist will recommend a pathway after evaluating both partners and discussing the physical, emotional, and financial considerations involved.

Where Does Egg Freezing Fit?

Egg freezing is a fertility-preservation procedure rather than a direct alternative to IUI or IVF for a couple currently trying to conceive. It may be considered when a woman plans to delay pregnancy or needs to preserve fertility before medical treatment.

The eggs are collected and frozen without fertilisation. If they are used later, they need to be thawed and fertilised through IVF. Their future use in Singapore is subject to the legal marriage requirement and prevailing regulations.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of IVF

IVF is a medical procedure and, like any treatment, carries potential risks and side effects. Your specialist will explain how these risks apply to your protocol and what symptoms require medical attention.

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

OHSS occurs when the ovaries respond too strongly to stimulation medication, causing swelling, fluid retention, and abdominal discomfort. Mild cases often settle with monitoring and supportive care, while severe cases are uncommon and require medical assessment.

Blood tests and ultrasound scans during stimulation help the team monitor the response and adjust the protocol where needed.

Multiple Pregnancy

Transferring two embryos increases the chance of twins compared with a single embryo transfer. Multiple pregnancy carries added risks for the mother and babies, including preterm birth and low birth weight.

The number of embryos transferred should be discussed according to age, embryo development, clinical history, and the applicable regulations.

Side Effects of Fertility Medication

The hormonal injections used during stimulation can cause temporary side effects such as bloating, mild abdominal discomfort, breast tenderness, headaches, mood changes, and reactions at the injection site. These are usually mild and resolve once the stimulation phase is complete.

Ectopic Pregnancy

In a small number of cases, an embryo implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy and requires prompt medical management.

An early pregnancy scan after a positive blood test helps confirm the pregnancy’s location.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

IVF can be emotionally demanding, involving hormonal changes, physical procedures, and uncertainty about the outcome. This is a normal part of the experience, not a weakness. Open communication with your partner, realistic discussions with your specialist, and access to counselling or peer support may help make the journey more manageable.

No Guarantee of Success

It is important to understand that not every IVF cycle results in a pregnancy, and some couples need more than one cycle. An unsuccessful cycle does not necessarily determine the outcome of a future attempt.

Your specialist will review the response, laboratory findings, and embryo development before discussing whether another cycle, a change in protocol, or a different pathway should be considered.

Additional Procedures That May Be Part of Your IVF Treatment

Depending on the diagnosis and how the cycle progresses, your specialist may recommend supporting procedures alongside IVF. These should be used according to clinical need.

Embryo Freezing (Vitrification)

Embryos that are not transferred in the current cycle may be frozen through vitrification for possible future use. This can allow a later frozen embryo transfer without repeating ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval. This means a later attempt, or a sibling in the future, may be possible without repeating the full stimulation and egg retrieval process.

Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

During a frozen embryo transfer, a previously frozen embryo is thawed and transferred in a later cycle. The uterine lining may be prepared through a natural or medicated cycle, depending on ovulation, medical history, and the treatment plan.

A “freeze-all” approach may be recommended when transfer during the stimulation cycle is not suitable, including when there is a concern about OHSS or the uterine environment.

Blastocyst Culture

Blastocyst culture allows embryos to develop in the laboratory until about Day 5 rather than transferring them on Day 2 or 3. This gives the embryology team additional time to observe development before transfer or freezing.

As some cycles do not produce an embryo that reaches the blastocyst stage, the timing of transfer should be discussed according to the number and development of the embryos.

Assisted Hatching

Assisted hatching is a laboratory technique in which a small opening is made in the outer shell of the embryo before transfer, to potentially help it implant. It may be considered in selected cases, such as older patients, frozen embryos, or embryos with a thicker outer shell, based on your specialist’s assessment.

Surgical Sperm Retrieval

When there is no sperm in the ejaculate, such as in cases of obstructive azoospermia, sperm may sometimes be retrieved directly from the testis or epididymis through minor procedures such as TESA or PESA. The retrieved sperm is then used with ICSI to fertilise the eggs.

Preparing for Your IVF Journey

Taking proactive steps before starting IVF can support physical and emotional readiness for treatment.

Complete a full fertility assessment before beginning a cycle. This may include hormone testing, an ultrasound scan, ovarian reserve assessment, semen analysis, and any additional investigations recommended by your doctor. Our fertility screening consultation is intended to review these factors and discuss possible pathways.

Adopt a supportive lifestyle in the months leading up to your IVF cycle. Focus on a nutrient-rich diet that includes adequate folate, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Maintain a healthy body weight through regular moderate exercise. Avoid smoking, excessive caffeine, and alcohol, as these can negatively affect egg and sperm quality. Couples can also learn more about how preconception care supports fertility before embarking on the process.

Review all prescription medicines, non-prescription products, and supplements with the fertility specialist. Do not stop or change prescribed medication without medical advice.

Prepare for the emotional and practical demands of treatment. IVF may involve frequent appointments, self-administered injections, recovery after egg retrieval, and uncertainty while waiting for results. Open communication with a partner and access to counselling or peer support may be helpful.

At The O&G Specialist Clinic, the care team is committed to guiding you through the process with clarity and compassion at every stage.

Making Your Decision About IVF in Singapore

IVF is one possible pathway for couples facing fertility concerns, but no two journeys are the same, and the right approach depends on age, diagnosis, and your medical history.

Understanding the procedure, regulations, outcome statistics, risks, and funding available in Singapore can support an informed discussion with a fertility specialist. Because fertility can change with time, seeking an assessment earlier may help clarify the pathways that remain clinically appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions About IVF in Singapore

Are babies born through IVF healthy?

Many babies conceived through IVF are healthy, and research generally shows their health outcomes are similar to those of naturally conceived children. Some studies have reported a small increase in certain risks, although this may partly relate to parental age, multiple pregnancy, or the underlying causes of infertility rather than the IVF procedure itself.

A specialist can discuss the couple’s medical history and any pregnancy-related considerations relevant to their circumstances.

How long can frozen embryos be stored in Singapore?

Frozen embryo storage is subject to prevailing MOH regulations, consent requirements, and the assisted reproduction centre’s policies. The permitted storage period and any extension process depend on the rules in force and the couple’s circumstances.

Couples should confirm the applicable storage period, fees, renewal requirements, and what happens when consent changes directly with their centre.

Can I use donor eggs or sperm for IVF in Singapore?

Yes, but only under regulated conditions. Donor eggs and sperm are permitted for legally married couples on a purely altruistic basis, meaning donors cannot be paid, and donor identities are kept anonymous. Donors undergo rigorous medical and genetic screening. Under Singapore law, the birth mother and her spouse are the legal parents of a child born this way, and single women cannot receive donor sperm.

Can I continue working and exercising during IVF?

Yes, most women continue working and light daily activities throughout IVF. Gentle exercise such as walking may be suitable, but strenuous or high-impact activity should generally be avoided during ovarian stimulation and after egg retrieval because enlarged ovaries carry a small risk of ovarian torsion. Your specialist will give guidance based on symptoms and how your body responds to treatment.

Does stress affect IVF success?

There is no strong evidence that everyday stress or anxiety causes an IVF cycle to fail, so couples should not feel that their emotions will determine the outcome. That said, IVF can be an emotionally intense process, and managing stress through rest, support, and counselling where helpful is worthwhile for your overall wellbeing during treatment.

Is surrogacy legal in Singapore?

No. Surrogacy, where another woman carries a pregnancy on behalf of a couple, is not permitted in Singapore, whether on a commercial or altruistic basis. Couples exploring their options should discuss the treatments that are available and regulated locally, with a licensed centre.

Can foreigners undergo IVF in Singapore?

Yes. Legally married foreign couples may seek IVF at private fertility clinics in Singapore, subject to clinical assessment and the centre’s requirements.

However, government co-funding requires at least one spouse to be a Singapore Citizen and applies through public assisted reproduction centres. MediSave use depends on whether the patient or spouse has an eligible account, sufficient balance, and meets the prevailing withdrawal requirements. A consultation can confirm eligibility and provide a cost estimate.