Welcome to another edition of Ask Our Expert, where Putra Medical Centre Alor Setar (PMC) specialists share insights to help you make informed and confident health decisions. This week, we’re joined by Dr. Tan Yi Pin, Resident Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist and Clinical Director at Putra Medical Centre Alor Setar (PMC).
Dr. Tan earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from Manipal University (India) and his Doctor of Obstetrics & Gynaecology from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, where he also completed his postgraduate clinical training. With extensive experience in antenatal care, childbirth, laparoscopic gynaecological surgery, and fertility management, he continues to support women and couples through evidence-based reproductive and maternal care.
Understanding Fertility and Why It Matters
Infertility affects about 1 in 6 couples worldwide (WHO 2023). In Malaysia, fertility challenges are becoming more common due to lifestyle changes, delayed childbearing, and health conditions affecting either partner.
Quick Facts About Fertility
- Fertility challenges are common: Around 1 in 6 couples worldwide experience difficulty conceiving, a figure that aligns with Malaysia’s national estimates (MOH, WHO).
- Both partners matter: Male factors contribute to about 40–50% of cases, while female factors account for another 40–50%. In about 10% of cases, the cause is unexplained.
- Age plays a major role: Women’s fertility begins to decline gradually after age 30 and more sharply after age 35. Men may also experience reduced sperm quality with age.
- Lifestyle and health influence fertility: Smoking, alcohol, obesity, extreme weight loss, stress, and untreated chronic conditions (such as diabetes or thyroid disorders) can reduce reproductive function.
- Early evaluation helps: Medical assessment is advised after 12 months of trying (or 6 months if the woman is over 35 or has irregular cycles, endometriosis, or prior pelvic surgery).
- Modern care is multidisciplinary: Depending on the cause, management may include lifestyle changes, medical therapy, or assisted reproductive options such as ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
- Emotional well-being matters: Stress and anxiety can affect hormonal balance; couples benefit from counselling and emotional support throughout the process.
Q&A with Dr. Tan Yi Pin
Q: When should a couple seek medical help for fertility issues?
Dr. Tan: If you’ve been trying for a baby for more than a year without success, or six months if you’re over 35, it’s advisable to seek a fertility assessment. Early consultation helps identify treatable causes and increases success rates.
Q: What are common causes of infertility?
Dr. Tan: Causes vary. In women, infertility may result from irregular ovulation, blocked tubes, or endometriosis. For men, it’s often due to low sperm count or motility. Sometimes, both partners contribute, or the cause remains unexplained.
Q: What fertility treatments are available at PMC?
Dr. Tan: Putra Medical Centre Alor Setar provides comprehensive reproductive care, including:
- Ovulation induction
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
- In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and ICSI
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery for endometriosis or tubal conditions
- Lifestyle counselling and pre-conception screening
Each plan is tailored to the couple’s condition and preferences.
Q: How successful are fertility treatments?
Dr. Tan: Success depends on factors such as age, health, and treatment type. IVF success for women under 35 is around 40–50 percent per cycle. At Putra Medical Centre Alor Setar we emphasise personalised care and emotional support throughout the journey.
Q: Is fertility treatment painful or risky?
Dr. Tan: Most procedures are minimally invasive. Discomfort is mild and manageable. Complications are rare and closely monitored.
Q: What lifestyle tips improve fertility naturally?
Dr. Tan: Maintain a healthy weight and diet; avoid smoking, alcohol, and excess caffeine; manage stress; track ovulation and timing; and men should avoid prolonged heat and tight clothing.
Fertility Care At Putra Medical Centre Alor Setar
At Putra Medical Centre Alor Setar, fertility care is supported by advanced diagnostics, an experienced multidisciplinary team, and strong privacy commitment. Couples receive compassionate, confidential support from screenings to IVF.
PMC Journey: Supporting the Path to Parenthood
At PMC, fertility care is more than procedures. Each couple’s journey is supported with empathy, confidentiality, and coordinated care that addresses both medical needs and emotional well-being, from first assessment to follow-up.
Disclaimer: This content is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider for personal concerns. If you experience urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention or call 999.
