I disagree with Health Minister Gan Kim Yong's justification as to why the ministry does not allow women here to freeze their eggs ("More single women freezing their eggs overseas"; last Sunday).

He said that besides the risk of complications from the procedure and risks associated with pregnancy at an older age, there are social and ethical implications as well.

As a 37-year-old single woman, I have often thought about the topic of freezing my eggs. I am in charge and in control of most aspects of my life. So why should my bodily functions be controlled by the Government?

If the health implications of the in-vitro fertilisation process are truly a serious concern, why subsidise married couples so that they can go through the same process?

Mr Gan also brought up social norms.

But social norms are ever changing and evolving.

Demographics have changed in the past years. The nature of the family unit has changed, and the proportion of single people is increasing.

The Government should cater to all segments of society. Sidelining some or expecting them to accept all policies without listening to their opinions, desires and needs is counterproductive.

We have to decide whether we are a tolerant and accepting society, or one that penalises others for their differences.

Hence, I urge the ministry to reconsider its position.

Stacey Choe Siao Yun (Ms)