Emergency Contraception in Singapore: Where to Get the Morning After Pill and How It Works
Birth control doesn’t always go as expected, and sometimes accidents happen (Cassoobhoy, 2023). Whether it’s a condom breaking, missing a pill, or having unprotected sex, emergency contraception provides a backup option to help prevent an unplanned pregnancy. In Singapore, the morning-after pill is a popular and effective choice for women in these situations. Here, we will explain how it works, where to find it, and the main options available.
What Is Emergency Contraception?
Emergency contraception (EC) is a type of birth control that helps prevent pregnancy (World Health Organization, 2021) after unprotected sex or if another contraceptive method fails. It is not intended for regular use but rather as a backup option in emergencies (Mayo Clinic, 2024).
The morning-after pill prevents ovulation, which is the process of an egg being released from the ovary. (Cleveland Clinic, 2024). Without an egg, fertilization by sperm is not possible, thus preventing pregnancy. It’s important to remember that emergency contraception doesn’t end a pregnancy if you’re already pregnant, so it’s different from an abortion pill.
Available Emergency Contraceptive Pills in Singapore
In Singapore, two popular brands of emergency birth control pills are:
| Category | Postinor | Escapelle | Ella |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dosage | Consists of two tablets, each containing 0.75mg of levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone. You should take the first tablet as soon as possible after unprotected sex, and the second tablet approximately 12 hours later. | Contains a single dose of 1.5mg of levonorgestrel, making it more convenient as only one tablet is needed. It should be taken as soon as you can after unprotected sex. | Contains 30mg ulipristal acetate as the active ingredient. The recommended dosage is one 30mg tablet taken as soon as possible within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. |
| How it works | Contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that prevents ovulation. If ovulation has already happened, it may also stop fertilization or prevent the egg from implanting. | Contains levonorgestrel and works by delaying ovulation. | Works by delaying ovulation, preventing the release of an egg from the ovary and inhibits fertilization by making it harder for sperm to reach the egg. |
| Effectiveness | When taken correctly, Postinor-2 can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 85% (MIMS, 2005). However, it works less effectively the longer you wait. | Most effective when taken promptly, with a success rate of up to 95% if used within 24 hours. | More effective than levonorgestrel-based options (Kassel & Catlett, 2022), especially if taken later in the 120-hour window. |
| Side effects | – Nausea – Fatigue – Headache – Dizziness – Changes in their menstrual cycle | – Nausea – Abdominal pain – Fatigue – Spotting | – Nausea – Fatigue – Headache – Dizziness – Abdominal pain |
Where to Get It
For birth control pills in Singapore, you can now find them over-the-counter. Before using it, consult with a doctor. Here are some options for obtaining the morning-after pill:
Most GP clinics in Singapore can provide a prescription for these ‘i pills’. Simply explain your situation to the doctor, and they will assess your suitability for the medication. Many clinics offer same-day appointments, allowing you to act quickly.
Polyclinics are government-subsidized healthcare centers that provide affordable medical services, including prescriptions for emergency contraception. While they may be a more budget-friendly option, keep in mind that waiting times can be longer compared to private clinics.
Specialized women’s health clinics, such as those operated by private healthcare providers or organizations like the Singapore Planned Parenthood Association (SPPA), offer services related to contraception and reproductive health. These clinics are often more discreet and tailored to women’s needs.
Private hospitals with obstetrics and gynecology departments can also provide emergency contraception. While this option may be more expensive, it offers a high level of privacy and professionalism.
In recent years, telemedicine services have become more popular in Singapore. These are online platforms where you can talk to a doctor remotely, without needing to go to a clinic. If they think it’s necessary, they can prescribe you medication. Some of these services even offer delivery, so the medication can be sent directly to your home.
Final Thoughts
Accidents happen, and having access to emergency contraception like Postinor-2 0.75mg Tablet, Escapelle 1.5mg Tablet or Ella 30mg Tablet can provide peace of mind when things don’t go as planned. In Singapore, getting those plan B pills is easy with the help of prescriptions. There are several ways to get it quickly and privately.
Remember, emergency contraception is just one option. For long-term protection, talk to your healthcare provider about regular birth control methods. Taking control of your sexual health starts with knowing your choices!
References
- Cassoobhoy, M. (2023). Can you get pregnant on birth control? WebMD.https://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/can-i-get-pregnant-if-on-pill
- World Health Organization. (2021). Emergency contraception. Newsroom. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/emergency-contraception#:~:text=Emergency%20contraception%20refers%20to%20methods,after%20the%20act%20of%20intercourse.
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024). Morning-after pill. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/morning-after-pill/about/pac-20394730#:~:text=The%20morning%2Dafter%20pill%20is,It’s%20a%20backup%20option.
- MIMS. (2005). Postinor-2: Consumer medicine information. MIMS. https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/8ca8c752-66df-4261-aef6-a53300fec1fe.pdf
- Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Morning-after pill. In Treatments & procedures. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23386-morning-after-pill
- Kassel, G., & Catlett, T. (2022). Everything you need to know about the Ella morning after pill. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sex/ella#takeaway
FAQ
Yes, you can buy the morning-after pill in Singapore, but it requires a prescription from a doctor.
The morning-after pill works primarily by preventing pregnancy through one or more of the following mechanisms:
- Delaying Ovulation: It can prevent or delay the release of an egg from the ovary, so that sperm cannot fertilize it.
- Interfering with Fertilization: It can alter the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and reach the egg.
- Altering the Uterine Lining: It can make the lining of the uterus (endometrium) less receptive to a fertilized egg, preventing implantation if fertilization has already occurred.
The morning-after pill is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours, but it can work up to 5 days depending on the type of pill. It is important to note that it will not be effective if pregnancy has already occurred.
The morning-after pill is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Key rules include:
- Prescription: In many places, including Singapore, a prescription is required.
- Time Frame: Most effective within 72 hours, but can work up to 120 hours (5 days).
- Age: Restrictions may apply, depending on the country.
- Not for Regular Use: It’s not a primary contraceptive method.
- Effectiveness: May be less effective for women over certain weights.
- Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, and changes in periods are common.
It’s not effective if you’re already pregnant and should be used as an emergency option only.
No, the emergency pill does not work immediately. It needs to be taken within a specific time frame (usually within 72 hours, but up to 120 hours for some types) after unprotected sex. Once taken, it works by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or altering the uterine lining to prevent implantation, but it does not provide immediate protection or act instantly. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it is.
The emergency pill is generally safe but not 100% effective. It’s most effective when taken quickly after unprotected sex, but effectiveness decreases over time. Side effects may include nausea, headaches, and changes in your period. It’s not recommended as a regular contraceptive and does not protect against STIs. Always consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
The morning-after pill’s effectiveness depends on several factors:
- Timing: It’s most effective if taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. The sooner you take it, the better the chances of preventing pregnancy.
- Within 72-120 Hours: It can work up to 5 days after unprotected sex, but effectiveness decreases over time.
- Body Weight: In some cases, it may be less effective for women over a certain weight (usually over 165 pounds or 75 kg).
- Proper Use: It must be taken as directed; vomiting within 2 hours of taking it may require another dose.
While it’s not 100% effective, following these guidelines increases the likelihood that it will work. If you’re unsure, consult a healthcare provider.
Yes, the morning-after pill can cause some bleeding or spotting. This is a common side effect and may occur within a few days after taking the pill. It can happen due to changes in hormone levels caused by the pill.
However, bleeding after taking the morning-after pill is usually not a sign of a problem and should subside. If the bleeding is heavy or lasts longer than a week, or if you miss your next period, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider to rule out other issues.
You should take only one dose of the emergency pill. If you vomit within 2 hours, you may need another dose. Always follow the instructions or consult a healthcare provider.
The best emergency pill is Ella (Ulipristal Acetate), effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. It’s more effective than pills like Postinor or Escapelle, which work up to 72 hours. Ella is available by prescription in many countries.
The morning-after pill is less effective if you’ve already ovulated, as it works by delaying ovulation. It may still work, but its effectiveness is reduced. Consult a healthcare provider for advice.
Reviewed by Doctoroncall Panel Doctor.
