Pre-Conception Counselling & Fertility Screening Singapore

Planning to start or expand your family is an exciting journey; however, it often comes with questions about your reproductive health. Pre-conception counselling and fertility screening can provide important insights into your reproductive wellness, helping you make informed decisions and prepare for a healthy pregnancy. These assessments review various aspects of your health, identify potential challenges, and create a personalised roadmap for your pregnancy journey.

In Singapore, where many couples plan pregnancies later in life, which may be due to career and lifestyle factors, understanding fertility status has become increasingly relevant. Our Gynaecologist provides thorough evaluations that consider both medical and lifestyle factors influencing conception.

Dr. Harvard Lin

Obstetrician & Gynaecologist

MBBS (SG)|MRCOG (UK)|MMed (OBGYN) (SG)

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Overview Candidates Assessment Process Benefits Findings Cost FAQs

What is Pre-Conception Counselling & Fertility Screening?

Pre-conception counselling is a consultation with a gynaecologist to evaluate your overall health and readiness for pregnancy. It involves reviewing your medical history, lifestyle factors, and any concerns you may have about conceiving. The session helps identify and address potential issues early, optimising conditions for conception and a healthy pregnancy.

Fertility screening complements this process by assessing reproductive function through specific tests. These may include hormonal blood tests, ovarian reserve assessment, and ultrasound evaluation of reproductive organs. For couples, both partners may undergo screening to have a complete assessment of fertility.

Together, counselling and screening provide a proactive, holistic approach to family planning. The process can highlight areas for lifestyle adjustment, identify potential challenges, and guide timely interventions when needed.

Who is a Suitable Candidate?

Ideal Candidates

Pre-conception counselling and fertility screening are helpful for most couples planning pregnancy, but they are particularly relevant for:

Women planning pregnancy within the next 12 months
Couples trying to conceive for 6 months or longer without success
Women aged 35 and above planning their first pregnancy
Individuals with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and hypertension
Women with irregular menstrual cycles or gynaecological conditions
Couples with a family history of genetic disorders
Women who have experienced previous pregnancy losses
Individuals taking long-term medications that may affect fertility
Couples seeking reassurance about their reproductive health

Other situations where screening may be especially useful include previous pregnancy complications, history of cancer treatment, autoimmune conditions, or couples considering assisted reproductive technologies.

Assessment Components & Screening Methods

Health History Review

Our gynaecologist will review your medical, surgical, and reproductive history, including previous pregnancies and family medical background. Lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, stress, and occupational exposures are also discussed.

Fertility Blood Tests

Common hormonal tests include Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) for ovarian reserve, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinising Hormone (LH) for ovarian function, and thyroid function tests. Depending on your history, additional hormones such as prolactin or testosterone may also be checked.

Ultrasound Evaluation

A transvaginal ultrasound provides information about ovarian follicles, uterine anatomy, and endometrial thickness, while also identifying fibroids, cysts, or other structural findings that may affect fertility.

Infectious Disease Screening

Tests may include rubella immunity, hepatitis B and C, HIV, syphilis, and other infections that could impact pregnancy outcomes.

Wondering which fertility tests are right for you?

Schedule a consultation to learn about pre-conception counselling and screening options in Singapore.

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The Counselling & Screening Process

Pre-Appointment Preparation

Before your consultation, bring along the relevant medical records including past test results, vaccination records, and current medications. Tracking menstrual cycles for a few months is helpful. It is ideal to have both partners attending the consultation, as male factors can also contribute to many fertility challenges.

The consultation typically lasts 45-60 minutes and includes a health review, physical examination, which may include a general health assessment, pelvic examination, and breast examination. Blood tests may be taken at the appointment or scheduled for specific points in the menstrual cycle. Follow-up visits review results, provide tailored advice, and outline next steps.

Blood samples are collected during the consultation or scheduled for specific cycle days. For hormonal assessments, timing matters – some tests require collection during early menstrual cycle days (day 2-5), while others are performed mid-cycle or during the luteal phase.

Results Interpretation & Action Planning

Once results are available, our Gynaecologist can explain what they mean for your fertility potential. Based on the findings, your plan may include:

Nutritional guidance, such as folic acid or vitamin D supplementation
Lifestyle recommendations for weight management, stress reduction, or exercise
Medical treatment of identified conditions like thyroid imbalance or insulin resistance
Referral to fertility specialists when advanced interventions are appropriate

Our gynaecologist provides comprehensive post-screening support for optimal preparation for pregnancy. Schedule your consultation to learn more about what to expect.

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Benefits of Pre-conception Counselling & Fertility Screening

Identifies fertility challenges early, allowing timely intervention
Provides reassurance when results are normal, supporting confidence in trying for pregnancy
Optimises health before conception, reducing risks of complications
Highlights genetic considerations for couples with a family history of certain conditions
Addresses both partners, recognising that fertility is a shared journey

Potential Findings & Management

Screening may uncover conditions such as hormonal imbalances, diminished ovarian reserve, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, or endometriosis. Many of these can be managed with medication, lifestyle adjustments, or procedures to improve the chances of conception. Early referral to fertility specialists ensures access to treatment when needed, with pre-conception results serving as a valuable baseline.

In some cases, underlying conditions affecting male fertility may also be identified—such as low sperm count, poor motility, or infections. These can often be improved through medical treatment, supplements, or simple lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco or excessive heat exposure.

For couples with more complex fertility challenges, advanced options like assisted reproductive technologies (ART), including in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI), may be recommended. Regular follow-ups and ongoing counselling help tailor treatment plans, ensuring couples receive both the medical support and emotional guidance they need throughout the fertility journey.

Cost Considerations

Costs vary depending on the number of tests, the use of ultrasound, and the complexity of your medical history. Some clinics offer bundled packages for convenience. While there is an upfront investment, early detection of fertility issues may reduce the time and costs associated with prolonged attempts or later-stage fertility treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When should we start pre-conception counselling before trying to conceive?

Ideally 3–6 months before trying to conceive, though earlier may be advised for women over 35 or those with medical conditions.

Do both partners need to attend the counselling session?

While the initial focus is often on the female partner, involving both partners is recommended. Male factor contributes to approximately 40% of fertility challenges, and lifestyle factors affecting both partners influence conception success. The counselling session addresses the health of both partners, although specific screening tests may vary.

What if we’ve already been trying to conceive unsuccessfully?

Counselling and screening remain valuable. Couples under 35 should seek evaluation after 12 months of trying; those 35 and older after 6 months.

Can screening predict exactly when I’ll get pregnant?

Fertility screening provides information about your reproductive potential but cannot predict exact conception timing. Normal results suggest good fertility potential, but conception involves multiple factors including timing, sperm quality, and chance.

Should we avoid trying to conceive while undergoing screening?

You can continue trying to conceive during the screening process. Our Gynaecologist may recommend temporarily avoiding pregnancy if certain conditions requiring treatment are identified, or if specific medications incompatible with pregnancy are needed. Each situation is evaluated individually.

How often should fertility screening be repeated?

For women with normal initial results, repeat screening isn’t necessary unless conception hasn’t occurred after 12 months of trying or new symptoms develop. Certain tests like AMH may be repeated annually for women over 35 to monitor ovarian reserve changes. Our Gynaecologist can recommend appropriate follow-up based on your age and initial results.

Conclusion

Pre-conception counselling and fertility screening give couples a proactive start to their family planning journey. By identifying potential challenges early and optimising health before conception, couples can approach pregnancy with greater confidence and clarity.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Ready to take the next step in family planning? Schedule your pre-conception counselling and fertility screening consultation in Singapore today.

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Dr. Harvard Lin

Obstetrician & Gynaecologist

MBBS (SG)|MRCOG (UK)|MMed (OBGYN) (SG)

Dr. Harvard Lin is renowned for his expertise in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery.

Dr. Lin’s journey in medicine began at the prestigious National University of Singapore, where he earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). His commitment to excellence led him to further his education by becoming a Member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) through the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in the United Kingdom. He also holds a Master of Medicine (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) from the National University of Singapore.

As the Chief Coordinator of Gynaecologic Services at the National University Health System (NUHS), Dr. Lin plays a pivotal role in ensuring the highest quality care for women’s health. His leadership is also evident in his position as the Deputy Clinical Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at NUHS, where he contributes to shaping gynaecologic practices and growth across the cluster including Ng Teng Fong Hospital, Alexandra Hospital and Jurong Medical Centre.

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