Consultant gynaecologist Yeong Cheng Toh, 43, a fertility expert and father of three, admitted acting improperly by having an affair with his patient, who is also married.

He also breached rules on doctor-patient confidentiality by revealing to the woman confidential information about how two other patients at the hospital were treated.

In addition, he tampered with his lover's hospital records, failed to account for her visits and did not properly document her medical condition and the results of her medical examinations.

The council, the regulatory body overseeing all doctors here, noted however that he did not take advantage of the woman.

A spokesman said: 'The patient was not physically or psychologically vulnerable, and there was no exploitation of her.' No details about the woman were revealed.

Dr Yeong was involved with her while he was at KKH between April 2003 and March 2005. After leaving the hospital he joined a clinic in Mount Elizabeth Hospital.

It was KKH that complained to the SMC.

All doctors must abide by a strict ethical code of practice and, among other things, are barred from having sex with their patients.

A doctor since 1991, Dr Yeong was a consultant with KKH's Reproductive Medicine Unit at the time of the offences.

He has penned several papers on pregnancies in Singapore and has testified as a medical expert in cases before the High Court. He was represented by a lawyer at the SMC hearing.

In a statement yesterday, an SMC spokesman said Dr Yeong had brought disrepute to the profession.

He added: '(His) conduct transgressed the professional boundary between a doctor and a patient and a clear signal had to be sent to the medical profession that gross improper behaviour between a doctor and a patient cannot be tolerated.'

Dr Yeong had to give a written undertaking that he would not commit the offences again. The council's spokesman said: 'The disciplinary committee was of the view that there was a low risk of Dr Yeong repeating the offence and also considered the favourable testimonies from his patients and colleagues.'

To be reinstated, he will have to apply to to the council after his suspension.

Friends of Dr Yeong told The Straits Times they were shocked to learn what he did.

One doctor who declined to be named said: 'He's such a devoted family man. I don't know how this could have happened.'

cheekin@sph.com.sg