Winston Yip, 40, and his wife, Josephine, got married 15 years ago at 26. A few years into marriage, she was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, which caused irregular ovulation.
The couple started fertility treatments in 2013, progressing from IUI to IVF. Despite multiple attempts and two miscarriages, they continued trying, even after discovering Josephine had uterine polyps, which required surgery.
In 2020, COVID-19 delayed their plans, but they managed a fifth IVF attempt, which ended in another miscarriage. In 2021, Yip’s wife found out she had breast cancer and underwent surgery and chemotherapy.
After completing treatment in 2022, she was cleared for IVF again. The couple is now awaiting viability scans for their remaining frozen embryos.
Coping with infertility: “We were hit badly by our last two miscarriages. I felt sad with each miscarriage but I was more concerned about Josephine’s feelings. I would check in with her – listen to her and let her cry. There is only so much a man can do but to let grief run its course and let time heal.
When we found out that Josephine had cancer in March 2021, I did not have much time to process it. Things were happening so fast, from getting diagnosed, to a treatment plan and mastectomy within two months.
The turning point was after the surgery when the doctor called me to say the operation went well. I broke down – it dawned on me, I could have lost her.
During those tough periods, we held on to our Christian faith, the support of our family and friends, especially those from FSS. I would also confide in a close buddy of mine.”
Tips for couples:
- Like any road trip or a long hike, it is normal to get tired or feel unwell. It is okay to have a pit-stop, but we should always look out for each other, recharge and set off together again.
- It is never about the destination, but always about our whys. Ours is because we are each other’s best friend and enjoy doing things together.
FERTILITY SUPPORT IN SINGAPORE
Support for your fertility journey: Fertility Support SG
Information about fertility: Healthhub
Information about co-funding for ART: Made for Families, a government initiative to support Singapore families.
Hospital fertility centres: SGH Centre for Assisted Reproduction (CARE), KKIVF Centre and NUH Centre for Human Reproduction