What inspired you to work in this profession?

I've always enjoyed both the analytical side of medicine and the technical challenge of surgery. Fertility medicine inspired me because it combines those passions in a way few other specialties do. It's a field that's constantly evolving, challenging me to keep learning, think critically, and solve complex problems. Most importantly, I have the privilege of helping people build the families they've been hoping for.

Do you treat period problems and pelvic pain as well as fertility?

Caring for all aspects of women's reproductive health (https://www.genea.com.au/pages/female-fertility-MCR5XEILJFFRFJVHAIQIR2LNQ3ZA) is what I love about my work. Period disorders, pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding are particular passions of mine alongside fertility, and for many women, these overlap. Being dual trained in reproductive surgery and infertility medicine means I can care for your symptoms and your fertility goals together, rather than treating them separately.

What does minimally invasive surgery mean for me as a patient?

It means keyhole techniques rather than large incisions, which translates to less pain and faster recovery. I completed a Fellowship of Minimally Invasive Surgery and have dedicated significant additional training to it because it offers my patients broader treatment options (https://www.genea.com.au/fertility-treatments) and better outcomes, helping them return to their lives sooner.

Can I see you for a second opinion?

If you feel uncertain (https://www.genea.com.au/pages/get-a-second-opinion-MC4YJOXMMDVNFLDAE4LLZWVLCHKY) about your diagnosis or treatment plan, I am happy to review your situation. Fertility medicine is increasingly complex, with new evidence and treatment options emerging every year. Whether you’re considering IVF (https://www.genea.com.au/pages/ivf-treatment-MC2JQFBIC5TFHBHEYRZ65VU2Q5BE), surgery, or you simply want a fresh perspective, my job isn't to tell you what to do. It’s to draw on years of specialist training, clinical experience, and the available medical evidence, teach you what you need to know about your options, and then support you in making the decision that's right for you.

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Biography

Helping women and couples through fertility challenges and all aspects of reproductive health, Dr I-Ferne Tan is a fertility specialist and gynaecologist who is driven to develop and pursue innovative treatment options for her patients.

Dr I-Ferne enjoys treating all aspects of women's reproductive health, with a particular passion for period disorders, pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding and issues with getting pregnant. Dual trained in reproductive surgery and infertility medicine, with a Master of Reproductive Medicine and international fellowship training in minimally invasive surgery, she offers her patients a comprehensive range of surgical and non-surgical options.

She joined the Genea Fertility Specialist team in January 2022 and delivers the highest quality care by guiding her patients through their diagnosis and treatment options with clarity, compassion, and care tailored to each person's needs.

Available for: In person bookings | Telehealth consultations

About Dr I-Ferne Tan

Approach to care

Dr I-Ferne's approach to care is thoughtful, patient-led and clear. She listens closely, explains things in a practical way, and tailors evidence-based treatment to each person's needs and goals. She knows from personal experience how overwhelming fertility challenges can feel, and that understanding of both the emotional and clinical sides of care shapes everything she does.

Dr I-Ferne works closely with GPs, fertility clinics and other health professionals to keep each patient's care coordinated and connected. Outside of work, she is raising two young daughters to believe they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

"Every patient deserves to feel truly heard. No two fertility journeys look the same, so no two treatment plans should either. I take the time to understand each patient, then build an evidence-based plan around their needs and what matters most to them." - Dr I-Ferne Tan, Fertility Specialist at Genea Sydney CBD and Bondi Junction

Experience and qualifications

Dr I-Ferne is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FRANZCOG) and holds a Master of Reproductive Medicine from the University of New South Wales, alongside her Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Monash University in Melbourne.

Following her fellowship, she sought out international experience and completed a Fellowship of Minimally Invasive Surgery at the National University Hospital in Singapore. Minimally invasive surgery remains a keen interest, and she has dedicated significant additional training to developing broader treatment options for her patients, with better outcomes including minimal scarring, minimal pain and minimal recovery time.

Dr I-Ferne is a current member of the Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand, Australasian Gynaecological Endoscopy and Surgery Society, and the Society of Endometriosis and Uterine Disorders.

Guiding and teaching the next generation of doctors is important to Dr I-Ferne. She mentors gynaecology trainees at Royal North Shore Hospital and is an Honorary Lecturer at Macquarie University Medical School.