Are there any alternatives to IVF treatment if I am afraid of needles?

Doctor's Answers 2

Thanks for the D2D. IVF is one end of a spectrum of fertility treatment options, and it is usually used when all other methods have not worked.

There are simpler means of conceiving, from ultrasound scans to tracking egg development and timing of ovulation, pills to enhance the chances of egg growth, and techniques like intra-uterine insemination (IUI) to improve the odds of sperm-egg fertilisation. These methods do not, or hardly involve the use of injections.

If IVF does become necessary, we can always teach your husband to administer the injections for you. Many ladies are actually surprised at how easy and painless these injections are. In fact, the type of needles/ injection pens used are similar to those used by diabetic children.

If a young child can self-administer insulin injections, I am sure most ladies can learn too, after a 1-on-1 tutorial from the clinic! Good luck!

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Dr Paul Tseng

Gynaecologist

Most IVF treatments require the use of drugs that need to be administered by injections. It is possible to use oral medication, but the results are not as good and may even be poor.

Similar Questions

How will I know if implantation has failed during the IVF cycle?

It is not unusual to have some episodes of vaginal spotting when using the progestogen(Crinone) inserts. They can dry the vaginal skin and cause superficial abrasions which bleed when the pessary is inserted. In addition, some centres also use low-dose aspirin as a supplementary drug to enhance blood flow to the endometrium. These have the effect of thinning the blood and cause minor bleeds which seem to be worse then they actually are. The vaginal bleeds are not necessarily a sign of failed implantation.

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Answered By

Dr Paul Tseng

Gynaecologist

How is IVF performed in Singapore, and what should one know before going for IVF in Singapore?

There are different protocols that are used for different types of patients. It is best you attend the Counselling sessions that are held by the IVF Centres to understand more about how they conduct their programs, as each fertility specialist has his/her own preferences. I think many patients have different concerns and misinformation about what IVF entails. Some think its very painful, some think it is very time consuming and others are concerned about the cost of the procedure.

Photo of Dr Paul Tseng

Answered By

Dr Paul Tseng

Gynaecologist

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