Updated Statistics on Average Number of IVF Cycles Required for Successful Pregnancies

Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) what the present statistics, if any, reflect about the average number of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles required for a successful pregnancy; and (b) if the Government has plans to adjust the relevant subsidies based on the statistics, to allow flexibility beyond the present cap of three fresh and three frozen assisted reproduction technology (ART) cycles.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The age of women and their underlying medical history is a more significant driver of the success rate for In-vitro fertilization (IVF) compared to the number of cycles.

For example, for women between 35 and 39 years old, the success rate is 18.4%; at 40 years old, the success rate is 12.1%, at 42 it is 7.8%; at 44 it is 3.7%; and it drops further with age. Some couples who desire children will want to keep trying. It is totally understandable, but as the couple gets older, the number of cycles will have a diminishing marginal impact on the success rate.

Notwithstanding, the Ministry of Health recognised the strong desire for some couples to want children. It is working with the National Population and Talent Division and is currently reviewing fertility health policies, including financing support for assisted conception procedures. The Ministry will take into consideration the latest clinical evidence as part of the review. More details will be shared when ready.