Learn About Birth Control Options in Singapore

Contraceptive Pills

Contraceptive pills are a type of medication that must be taken daily for 21-days to prevent pregnancy. They release hormones to make the womb lining thin, makes the cervix less penetrable by sperm and stops ovulation so that the ovary does not release any eggs. In Singapore, one could get these birth control pills by getting a prescription from a doctor.

However, not all general clinics in Singapore have a full range available. One may need to visit a women’s clinic to have more options.

When taken daily and properly, they can provide up to 98% protection. 

Emergency Contraceptive Pills

Also known as the “morning after pill”, emergency contraception can be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. In Singapore, emergency contraceptive pills are available with a prescription from a general practitioner. Like contraceptive pills, however, it would be better to visit a women’s clinic in Singapore to have more options.

These pills contain progestin, which is a hormone that prevents ovulation to stop pregnancy. It also thickens a woman’s cervical mucus to prevent the sperm from joining an egg.

However, since emergency contraception contains a high dose of hormones, there might be some side effects including irregular bleeding, nausea, dizziness and headaches.

Birth Control Implant

Aside from pills, one could also use birth control implants. Contraceptive implants like intrauterine devices (IUDs) are inserted into a woman’s uterus by a trained doctor in Singapore. They last for 5 years and can be either hormonal or non hormonal (copper). Another type of implant known as the Implanon is a little matchstick sized rod that can be inserted into the upper arm.