If you long to conceive, struggling with infertility can be physically challenging. It can also be emotionally draining but the most frustrating part is that the internet is awash with claims of medicines that can get you pregnant.
This makes it even more difficult to know which medications work and which don’t. That leaves seeking medical advice from a knowledgeable obstetrician/gynaecologist as your only viable option.
If you’re contemplating infertility treatment in Singapore, it should be easy to find an experienced professional who will guide you on the vital steps toward realising your dream of expanding or starting a family.
So, What Medicine helps you get Pregnant?
There are medications that can help you get pregnant. However, when contemplating infertility treatment in Singapore, it is important to acknowledge that every situation is different.
So, to get the most out of your treatment, the best first step is to consult with a qualified women’s health specialist. A specialist can help you consider factors like the underlying causes of infertility, and your medical history.
They will also help you understand the success rates of available medications, potential side effects and most importantly, your emotional well-being. Here are some of the medications they may recommend for infertility treatment in Singapore;
- Gonadotropins
Administered via injections, gonadotropins work by stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, to increase the chances of successful conception. Gonadotropin treatments, including Menopur, Gonal-F, Follistim AQ, and Bravelle, are carefully tailored to each individual’s needs.
Factors usually considered before administering this medication include age, hormone levels, and the underlying cause of infertility. Your healthcare provider will closely monitor the dosage and response to ensure optimal results.
- Clomiphene citrate
Unlike gonadotropins administered via injections, clomiphene citrate is an oral medication. Clomiphene citrate acts on the pituitary gland to encourage the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH).
These are the hormones essential for the growth of an ovarian follicle containing an egg. Clomiphene citrate may be recommended for you as the initial treatment option if you’re under 39 years and don’t have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Bromocriptine
Bromocriptine is a dopamine agonist. It may be recommended for you if you’re experiencing ovulation problems caused by hyperprolactinemia.
This is the excessive production of prolactin by the pituitary gland. Bromocriptine acts on the dopamine receptors to regulate prolactin levels and restore normal ovulation patterns. This medication can be a valuable tool in addressing the underlying hormonal imbalances that hinder fertility.
- Metformin
Metformin is commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. But it can also help in infertility treatments, specifically for women with (PCOS).
In cases where insulin resistance plays a role in infertility, Metformin, such as Fortamet, can be helpful. It targets insulin resistance to improve the chances of ovulation and increase the likelihood of achieving pregnancy.
Can you also get Surgery to Become Fertile?
While infertility medications work, there are instances when your fertility doctor may recommend surgery for your situation. Surgery may be required if medications alone are either inappropriate or insufficient.
Specifically, surgery may be recommended if you’re grappling with structural abnormalities in the reproductive organs, endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes or fibroids. These conditions may require surgery to remove or correct the underlying issues blocking conception. Here are two surgical options that may be suggested as part of your infertility treatment plan;
- Laparoscopic or hysteroscopic surgery: Laparoscopic surgery involves correcting abnormalities in the uterine anatomy. It involves the surgical removal of endometrial polyps or certain fibroids that distort the uterine cavity. It also involves the removal of pelvic or uterine adhesions. Hysteroscopic surgery focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions within the uterus, allowing for the removal of polyps or fibroids that affect fertility. These minimally invasive procedures offer precision and effectiveness in optimising the reproductive environment to increase the chances of a successful conception.
- Tubal surgeries: Tubal surgeries may be ideal if you have blocked or fluid-filled fallopian tubes. In cases where adhesions are present or when dilation or creation of a new tubal opening is required, laparoscopic surgery may be recommended. Also, in specific situations, such as when IVF may not be suitable or accessible, removing or blocking the tubes close to the uterus can improve the chances of achieving pregnancy through IVF.
What are the Risks of Fertility Treatments?
If you’re like most people considering infertility treatment in Singapore, you’ll be itching to know what may go wrong with the procedure. If you’re working with a knowledgeable infertility treatment specialist, you can expect them to explain all the potential risks and outcomes before the procedure.
This is to help you can make an informed decision based on your unique situation. Now, fertility treatments are generally very safe.
However, like other treatments and procedures, they come with risks you should know about before consenting to the procedures or medications. One such risk is the possibility of a multiple pregnancy or birth, such as twins, triplets, or more.
Although the joy of having multiple babies is undeniable, it actually increases the likelihood of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Also, some individuals may experience ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, which is a severe reaction to fertility drugs.
Healthcare providers closely monitor treatment progress to minimise potential complications and maximise the chances of a successful pregnancy. Also, a knowledgeable fertility doctor will only give you the OK to proceed with infertility treatment in Singapore if they’re certain that you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
Closing Thoughts
Infertility medications can help you achieve your dream of parenthood. For a smooth experience and to enhance your chances of conception, seek professional guidance and explore personalised treatment plans.
If you are seeking personalised fertility treatments and compassionate care, please schedule a consultation with DR. NG KAI LYN, a highly skilled Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with a clinical interest in fertility. DR. NG KAI LYN is dedicated to helping individuals, and couples overcome infertility challenges.
Take the first step towards building your family by contacting DR. NG KAI LYN’s office today to schedule your consultation. Contact details:
Dr Ng Kai Lyn | Female Gynaecologist | Women’s Health Specialist | Fertility Specialist Singapore
38 Irrawaddy Rd,
#05-34/35 Mt Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre,
Singapore 329563
+65 6011 1531