Fertility Support: A Guide to Services, Networks & Resources in Singapore

Navigating fertility challenges can be an emotionally challenging journey, but you do not have to face it alone. 

Singapore offers a wealth of support networks and resources for individuals and couples grappling with fertility issues. Here are some of the options available to you and your loved ones, from specialised counselling services to community support groups.

Counselling and coaching services

Professional counselling can be instrumental in managing the emotional toll of fertility challenges. Whether to reframe the struggles of fertility or to develop a toolbox of emotional techniques, counselling helps to maintain a sense of self throughout the fertility journey.

Several institutions in Singapore, including Thomson Fertility Centre, offer specialised services.

Fertility counselling

At Thomson Fertility Centre, we understand the emotional complexities of fertility treatments. Our team of experienced counsellors provides compassionate support and programs to help you navigate this challenging journey.

By including individual and couple sessions, healthy stress management techniques and incorporating decision-making support for treatment options, our counselling focuses on:

1. Fertility preparation

   

   • Helping to prepare you for your fertility treatments as well as understanding the implications of your treatment to make informed judgements is crucial.

2. Emotional support

   

   • The provision of emotional support before, during or after your fertility treatment is important when attempting to maintain an overall emotional balance.

   • For partners, guidance on how to provide emotional support to your spouse throughout the entirety of the fertility treatment journey.

3. Impact of infertility

   

   • Fertility counselling counselling helps to address and manage the impact of infertility and treatment on your life and relationships in the long run.

4. Stress management

   

   • Coping with stress that may be a result of undergoing treatments may help to mitigate stress through techniques that better manage your mental state.

While Thomson Fertility Centre provides comprehensive counselling services, other institutions in Singapore also offer support for those facing fertility challenges. 

Request an appointment with our counsellors to discuss your concerns and develop coping strategies.

Community support networks

Community support networks play a crucial role in the fertility journey, providing a safe space for individuals to share their experiences. For many, simply knowing they're not alone in their struggles can be immensely comforting and empowering.

Support networks function as up-to-date information and insight into medical advice and making informed decisions. Here are two examples of community support networks below:

1. Fertility Support SG

   • A community-driven initiative that provides invaluable emotional support and practical advice to those experiencing infertility, Fertility Support SG was founded by individuals who have faced similar challenges, offering a safe space for sharing experiences and connecting with others.

   • Fertility Support SG provides monthly meet-ups for in-person support, online forums for ongoing discussions and the sharing of personal stories and coping strategies.

2. I Love Children (ILC)

   • I Love Children (ILC) is a voluntary welfare organisation dedicated to promoting family planning and fertility wellness. Their focus extends beyond support to include education and awareness campaigns.

   • ILC has offered peer support groups, educational workshops on fertility issues and annual awareness campaigns since 2016

Government assistance programmes

The Singapore government offers financial support to couples undergoing fertility treatments through two main schemes:

1. MediSave for Assisted Conception Procedures

   • This scheme allows eligible couples to withdraw up to $15,000 per patient for fertility treatments that are available at both private and public assisted reproduction centres.

   • Medisave covers procedures like IVF and IUI, keeping in mind that the Withdrawal limits are Up to $6,000 for the First cycle: $5,000 for the second cycle and up to $4,000 for the third and subsequent cycles.

2. Co-funding for Assisted Conception Procedures

   • For treatments at public centres, the government provides co-funding of up to 75%, covering IUI (of up to 3 cycles) and ART (of up to 3 fresh and 3 frozen cycles)

   • Co-funding amounts vary based on citizenship, from up to 75% being covered for Singapore Citizen couples, 55% for Singapore Citizen-Permanent Resident couples and 35% for Singapore Citizen-Foreigner couples.

Eligibility criteria especially depend on age restrictions (generally below 40 years) and citizenship requirements. 

For more information on MediSave and co-funding schemes, please refer to Singapore’s MOH website. 

You are not alone

Facing fertility challenges can be a daunting experience, but remember, you are not alone. Singapore offers a robust network of support services and resources to help you on your journey to parenthood.

At Thomson Fertility Centre, we are committed to supporting you through every step of your fertility journey. Our team of experts provides not just medical care, but also the emotional and practical support that you may need during this challenging time.

If you are struggling with fertility issues, do not hesitate to reach out for help. Take that first step towards building your support network today. The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a fertility specialist at Thomson Medical or explore our available support and programs.