Fertility Test: What to Expect, Common Issues, and Costs in Singapore

For some couples, the road to pregnancy isn’t always smooth, even with consistent effort. If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, a fertility test can help provide clarity and guide your next steps.

What is a fertility health check?

A fertility health check is a comprehensive assessment designed to help you and your partner understand your reproductive health.

During this assessment, your doctor will examine your physical health, hormonal balance, and lifestyle factors that might affect your chance of conceiving.

When do I need to consider fertility testing?

You may consider fertility testing if:

• You and your partner have been trying to conceive for more than 12 months without success.

• You're a woman over 35 years old and have been trying to conceive for more than six months.

• You experience irregular periods or no periods.

• You've had multiple miscarriages.

• You're a man with a history of testicular issues or injuries.

• You have known health problems that could affect fertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders.

• You're concerned about your egg or sperm quality due to age or lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, or obesity.

• You're considering assisted reproduction techniques, such as IVF (in vitro fertilisation).

What are common fertility issues?

Infertility occurs when you and your partner have been trying to conceive for 12 months or more without success despite regular unprotected intercourse. This condition may affect both man and woman fertility and can stem from various factors.

Common causes of infertility in women

• Ovulation disorders:

  • Conditions like PCOS or thyroid imbalances can disrupt your regular ovulation cycle.

• Blocked fallopian tubes:

  • This condition is often caused by infections, endometriosis, or previous surgeries.

• Endometriosis:

  • A condition where tissue similar to your uterine lining grows outside your uterus, potentially affecting your fertility.

• Uterine abnormalities:

  • Issues such as fibroids, uterine polyps, or structural variations in your uterus that may interfere with conception or pregnancy.

• Age-related decline:

  • Your egg quantity and quality naturally decrease as you age, particularly after 35.

Causes of infertility in male

• Low sperm count:

  • Having fewer sperm reduces the chances of fertilisation.

• Poor sperm motility or shape:

  • Your sperm need proper movement ability and structure to successfully reach and fertilise an egg.

• Hormonal imbalances:

  • Low testosterone or other hormone irregularities can affect your sperm production.

• Varicocele:

  • Enlarged veins in your scrotum can increase temperature and compromise sperm quality.

• Lifestyle factors:

  • Factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to environmental toxins can impact your sperm health.

If you're finding it difficult to conceive, have irregular menstrual cycles, or are concerned about other fertility signs, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical for a comprehensive fertility evaluation.

Our fertility specialists will guide you through every step—from testing to diagnosis—and create a personalised care plan tailored to your needs. Whether you're just starting your journey or exploring treatment options, we're here to support you.

What is involved in a couple's fertility check-up?

When you and your partner have made the decision to perform a fertility health check, your evaluation will typically include:

• Medical history review:

  • Your doctor will discuss your past health conditions, how regular your menstrual cycles are, and any previous pregnancies or reproductive experiences.

• Physical examination:

  • You'll both undergo appropriate examinations to identify any physical conditions that might be affecting your fertility.

• Hormone testing:

  • Blood tests will assess important reproductive hormones in both you and your partner to ensure your hormonal systems are functioning properly.

• Imaging studies:

  • You may have diagnostic imaging such as ultrasounds or a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to examine your uterus and check if your fallopian tubes are open.

• Semen analysis:

  • Your partner will provide a semen sample that will be evaluated for sperm count, movement capability, and shape.

It is important that both of you participate in the fertility assessment, as fertility challenges can stem from factors relating to either partner or a combination of both.

Fertility testing for women

During your fertility evaluation, you may undergo several specialised female infertility tests to assess your reproductive health.

• Blood tests:

  • Your doctor will check your hormone levels, including oestrogen, progesterone, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), and AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone, which indicates your egg reserve) to evaluate your hormonal balance.

• Ultrasound scans:

  • These imaging studies allow your healthcare provider to examine your ovaries, uterus, and follicles (the small sacs that contain your eggs) to identify any physical issues.

• Hysterosalpingogram (HSG):

  • This X-ray procedure checks for blockages in the fallopian tubes and evaluates the shape of the uterus.

  • During this test, your doctor will introduce contrast dye through the cervix and take X-rays to see if the tubes are open. Blocked tubes can stop the egg from meeting the sperm.

• Ovarian reserve testing:

  • These assessments help determine the quantity and quality of your remaining eggs, giving you and your doctor important information about your reproductive potential.

Fertility testing for men

As part of your fertility evaluation, you may undergo several specific tests:

• Semen analysis, which looks at: 

  • Sperm count (how many sperm are present)

  • Sperm motility (how well the sperm move)

  • Sperm morphology (shape and structure)

  • Semen volume (how much fluid is produced)

• Blood tests:

  • Your doctor will check your testosterone levels and other reproductive hormones to ensure they're supporting healthy sperm production.

• Scrotal ultrasound:

  • This imaging test examines your testicles and surrounding structures to identify conditions like varicocele (enlarged veins) or other issues that might affect your sperm production.

• Genetic testing:

  • In some cases, your doctor may recommend genetic tests to rule out inherited conditions that could be affecting your fertility.

Request an appointment with our fertility specialists at Thomson Fertility Centre.

What happens after a couple's fertility assessment?

After your test results become available, your doctor will guide you through several important steps:

• Explain your findings:

  • Your doctor will review all test results with you, identifying any specific issues that might be affecting your fertility.

• Discuss your fertility treatment options:

  • Based on your unique situation, your doctor will recommend appropriate treatments, which might include lifestyle modifications, fertility medications, surgical procedures and assisted reproductive techniques like IVF or IUI (intrauterine insemination).

• Provide personalised guidance:

  • You'll receive specific recommendations on ways to enhance your fertility naturally, including dietary adjustments, appropriate exercise, and avoiding substances that might harm your reproductive health.

How much do fertility tests cost in Singapore?

The cost of a fertility test in Singapore can vary depending on the type of test, whether it is performed as a standalone test or as part of a health screening package, and where the tests are conducted (public or private clinic).

In general, here are the costs of a fertility test in Singapore:

Public healthcare

Public hospitals such as KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), Singapore General Hospital (SGH), and National University Hospital (NUH) offer fertility assessments, typically at lower rates for Singaporean citizens and PRs.

• Subsidised consultations start at around SGD 40–50 (with a referral from a polyclinic).

• Non-subsidised consultations may range between SGD 130–170, depending on the seniority of the doctor.

• Full fertility work-ups (before subsidies) can range from SGD 400–1,500, depending on the comprehensiveness of the assessment.

These public packages may include:

• Hormonal blood profiles

• Rubella and infectious disease screenings

• Pap smear

• Ultrasound scans

• Semen analysis

• Specialist consultations

Private healthcare

Private clinics and hospitals offer a wider range of fertility testing options, often with faster appointments, customised services, and more extensive testing options.

Individual tests (estimated ranges in SGD):

• Basic hormone tests (e.g. estrogen, LH, prolactin): SGD 30–50 per test

• AMH test: SGD 100–130

• Transvaginal ultrasound scan: SGD 180–220

• Basic semen analysis: SGD 80–110

• Advanced semen tests (e.g. DNA fragmentation): SGD 180–220

Bundled fertility packages:

• Female fertility packages: SGD 100–250

• Male fertility packages: SGD 80–150

• Comprehensive couple assessments: SGD 300–700+

These often include:

• Multiple hormone tests

• Ultrasounds

• Semen analysis

• Specialist consultations

• Egg reserve tests

• Ovulation tracking and more

To help cover the cost, you can use up to SGD 300 annually from your MediSave account at select clinics. If you have private insurance, you may need to check with your individual provider to see if a pelvic ultrasound is covered by your policy.

For detailed fee information and payment options, request an appointment with our specialists at Thomson Medical today.

FAQ

When should I consider getting a fertility test?

You should consider fertility testing if you have been trying to conceive for more than 12 months (or 6 months if the woman is over 35), have irregular periods, have a history of miscarriages, or have known reproductive health conditions such as PCOS or endometriosis.

How can I check my fertility in Singapore?

In Singapore, you can check your fertility through:

• Public or private hospitals:

  • Public hospitals are generally more affordable and may be partially subsidised; however, waiting times can be longer. Private hospitals provide quicker appointments and more personalised care, albeit at a higher cost.

• Private fertility clinics:

  • These clinics provide appointments at a faster rate, personalised care, and a wide range of fertility tests.

• General practitioners (GPs):

  • Your GP can provide basic fertility assessments and refer you to appropriate specialists when needed.

Can I do my fertility test at home?

Yes, you can perform certain fertility tests at home, but they have limitations:

• Ovulation predictor kits:

  • It will help you track if and when you are ovulating.

• Hormone test:

  • The AMH test can determine your egg reserve, or the number of eggs you still have.

• At-home sperm test kits:

  • These kits can check sperm count but don’t assess sperm movement or shape, which are important for fertility.

While home testing provides basic insights, these tests aren't as comprehensive or reliable as clinical evaluations. For a complete assessment of your fertility, a doctor's evaluation is recommended.

Can I go to my GP for a fertility test?

Yes, you can. Many GPs offer basic fertility checks. Your GP can:

• Review your medical history

• Order blood tests to check your hormone levels

• Refer you for ultrasounds or semen analysis

For more specialised or in-depth fertility assessments, your GP will refer you to a specialist.

Can men freeze sperm in Singapore?

Yes, sperm freezing (also called sperm cryopreservation) is available in Singapore. Your sperm can be stored for many years and used later for assisted reproductive techniques like IVF or IUI. Fertility clinics and hospitals offer this service.

You might consider freezing your sperm if you:

• Have a medical condition or upcoming treatment that could affect your fertility (such as cancer treatment)

• Travel frequently or want to preserve your fertility for future family planning

• Are planning to undergo a vasectomy but want to keep your options open for having children later

Is a fertility test painful?

Most fertility tests are not painful, though some may cause mild discomfort:

• Blood tests:

  • You might feel slight discomfort from the needle prick.

• Ultrasound scans:

  • Transvaginal ultrasounds may feel uncomfortable but aren't typically painful.

• Semen analysis:

  • This method involves no pain, just a simple sample collection.

• Hysterosalpingogram (HSG):

  • This dye test checks your fallopian tubes; some women experience mild cramping during the procedure.

If you're concerned about discomfort during testing, discuss the matter with your doctor—they can suggest ways to make your experience more comfortable.

Is it necessary to have all tests done at once?

Not necessarily. The fertility specialist will usually start with a basic assessment, including blood tests, ultrasound scans, and semen analysis. They will determine the need for additional tests based on the results. The approach is often step-by-step to avoid unnecessary procedures.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations based on your medical conditions, request an appointment with Thomson Medical.