How to Get Birth Control in Singapore [Expat Edition]
Plan Bs for your Plan Bs. Find out more about getting birth control in Singapore.
*This is a collaboration between Speedoc & MetroResidences
This is the kind of surprise that not all of us would want. Thankfully, birth control is well-protected in Singapore. The healthcare system here ensures the availability of birth control and various contraception methods. That much is true for most developed and developing nations, though not all (*cough, America*). Ensuring access to birth control goes a long way toward improving prenatal care, encouraging breastfeeding, and developing better programmes for families, couples, and individuals alike. So, to make sure you don’t get any surprises you’re not expecting, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get contraceptives in Singapore.
Table of Contents
- Birth Control in Singapore
- Where to get contraceptives in Singapore?
- Paying for Contraceptives in Singapore
- Can Telehealth Provide Contraceptives in Singapore
- Speedoc: Telehealth Made Easy [Promo Codes Here]
- Types of Birth Control in Singapore
- Birth Control in Singapore: the Conclusion
- MetroResidences Singapore Serviced Apartments—Your Home Base for Travels Beyond
Birth Control in Singapore
Rest assured, contraception is legal and readily available in Singapore. The easiest birth control you can get is condoms, though for the rest you’d need to visit your General Practitioner (GP) or polyclinic to get a prescription. As an expat, navigating the healthcare system and finding the right contraception can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the local healthcare system.
Where to get contraceptives in Singapore?
Ready to take control of your reproductive health in Singapore? Step one: schedule a visit with a trusted doctor or gynaecologist to explore your options for contraception. Whether you’re a business traveller or a digital nomad, you can choose between private or public healthcare facilities, depending on your preference and budget. Public healthcare facilities are typically more cost-effective, while private healthcare facilities generally provide more individualised attention and shorter waiting periods.
During your appointment, they will likely ask you questions about your medical history, sexual activity, and any previous experiences with contraceptives. For the best possible care, you have to be honest and open about your sexual health.
Aside from the usual healthcare facilities, some clinics in Singapore do focus more on women’s health, such as the DTAP Clinic and Ezra Clinic. But if you’re thinking of getting contraception online, it’s important to exercise caution when purchasing medication online; only purchase from reputable and licensed pharmacies. If you need a healthcare professional online, you can try from one of the telemedicine providers on this list by the Singapore Ministry of Health.
Overall, getting contraception in Singapore is relatively easy and accessible. Expats can choose between private or public healthcare facilities, and there are various types of contraceptives available. It’s essential to be honest and open with your healthcare provider to ensure that you receive the best possible care.
All of this seems daunting. But fear not, we’re here to help guide you through getting contraceptives in Singapore.
Paying for Contraceptives in Singapore
The cost of contraception in Singapore depends on the type of contraceptive and the healthcare facility you head to.Most of the time, public healthcare facilities, such as national hospitals and polyclinics, offer more affordable contraception. But private healthcare facilities may offer more personalized care, and shorter wait times.
Expats who have health insurance should check with their insurance provider to see if contraception is covered under their plan. Who knows, your insurance plans may cover the cost of contraception. Or, they may need a co-payment or deductible for certain contraceptive methods.
Can Telehealth Provide Contraceptives in Singapore
Yes! Some telehealth providers do provide some contraceptives, all from the comfort of your own home. Telehealth providers are usually able to provide less-invasive contraceptive methods, such as birth control pills and transdermal birth control patches.
So say goodbye to awkward doctor visits and hello to Telehealth – a hassle-free and private solution for all your contraceptive needs. Plus, you can receive and manage their contraceptive prescriptions through telehealth platforms. Most telehealth providers can prescribe medication online and send the medication directly to the pharmacy for pick up, or even deliver it right to your doorstep.
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Types of Birth Control in Singapore
Condoms
This is the least you can do, gentlemen. After all, studies suggest that condoms have an effectiveness rate of 85% when it comes to preventing pregnancies. Tried and true, the condom is probably the most common and cost-effective birth control method anywhere you go. Compared to other forms of birth control types, this is the only one that helps prevent the spread of STIs.
Male condoms are typically composed of thin materials such as latex, polyurethane or polyisoprene. Before getting down to business, make sure to slip it on once your partner is ready for action.
Where to get Condoms in Singapore
- supermarkets
- grocery stores
- convenience stores
- online marketplaces, eg. Shopee, Amazon, Lazada
Contraceptive Pills/Birth Control Pills
This is another commonly used contraceptive method. As an oral contraceptive, the pills work by providing oestrogen and progestin to halt the ovulation process. The pill can also increase the thickness of the cervical mucus lining in the cervix. The thicker mucus impedes the progress of sperm as it makes its way into the ovaries. It’s also highly effective: up to 91% effective.
Where to buy contraceptive pills in Singapore?
- your preferred gynaecologist
- neighbourhood general practitioner (GP)
- select private clinics
- polyclinics
- local pharmacies, if you have a prescription
Tip: Most GPs mark up birth control pills. So get a doctor’s prescription and then head to a pharmacy to get the pill at a lower price.
Transdermal Patches for Birth Control
This is truly a great invention. It works exactly like the birth control pill, but you don’t need to remember to wear it every day. You’ll only need to replace the patch once every three weeks. For maximum effectiveness, wear it on Day 1 of your menstrual cycle. If you start wearing it anytime else, you have to use barrier protections (condoms, basically), for the first 7 days.
And you don’t have to worry if it falls off. It usually has very strong adhesives. So you can still shower, swim, and exercise even with the patch on.
Where to buy transdermal patches in Singapore?
- your preferred gynaecologist
- neighbourhood general practitioner (GP)
- select private clinics
- Singapore polyclinics
- local pharmacies, if you have a prescription
Contraceptive Injections
You’re that badass, huh. (I’m just not a fan of needles.) This is just another form of birth control pills as well. If you’re using this contraceptive method, you need to inject it once every three months, and you shouldn’t take it for over 2 years. But should you decide to have children, you might have to wait up to 14 weeks before you can try having kids.
Where to get contraceptive injections in Singapore?
- your preferred gynaecologist
- neighbourhood general practitioner (GP)
- select private clinics
- Singapore polyclinics
Contraceptive Implants
With an effective rate of up to 99%, contraceptive implants are often considered because it’s not only effective, long-term and flexible. It’s a flexible plastic rod inserted into your upper arm, and then the rod gradually releases progestin. Once it’s implanted, you just need to replace it once every three years, unlike most other contraceptives where you have to worry about it regularly. You can also
And it’s reversible too. Your healthcare provider can remove the implant if you want to get pregnant. Not only that, you can start trying as soon as you remove the implant.
Where to get contraceptive implants in Singapore?
- your preferred gynaecologist
- neighbourhood general practitioner (GP)
- select private clinics
- Singapore polyclinics
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
At this point, the IUD may well be an ancient method of birth control. It’s a small T-shaped device that fits into the uterus. It stops sperm from reaching and fertilising the eggs. The IUD does not contain hormones, so your periods won’t be affected. While it can have a long-term, direct spermicidal effect, your periods can be heavier and more painful in the first few months. For most, the pain gradually fades with time. You can get pregnant as soon as the IUD is removed.
Where to get IUDs in Singapore?
It’s best verify with your healthcare provider before scheduling an appointment, as IUDs may only be accessible at certain healthcare facilities.
- your preferred gynaecologist
- neighbourhood general practitioner (GP)
- select private clinics
- Singapore polyclinics
Emergency Contraception Pill
Every plan has a contingency plan. Sometimes known as ‘Plan B’ or the ‘morning after pill’, this birth control method can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.
Studies have suggested that emergency contraception can decrease the probability of pregnancy by 75-90%. That said, the earlier you take it after unprotected sex, the more effective it is. And, emergency contraception is not the same thing as the ‘abortion pill’ (mifepristone/RU-486). If you are already pregnant, emergency contraception does not cause an abortion.
Emergency contraception is usually more effective the earlier you take it after unprotected sex. If you need emergency contraception, visit a doctor as soon as possible, ideally within 48-72 hours of unprotected sex.
Where to buy emergency contraception pills in Singapore?
- your preferred gynaecologist
- neighbourhood general practitioner (GP)
- select private clinics
- Singapore polyclinics
In Singapore, emergency contraception can only be obtained through a prescription, which requires a consultation with a doctor. General practitioners are typically able to provide this service.
If the medication is not available from your current physician, it may be necessary to seek assistance from another medical professional. Women of any age can obtain the drug from a doctor or GP after a consultation.
It is necessary for a woman to personally consult with a doctor. A man is not permitted to consult on behalf of his partner. If there is a need for emergency contraception for a partner, it is necessary for them to seek medical attention themselves. It is also important to notify your doctor of any allergies or current medications.
Birth Control in Singapore: the Conclusion
Staying safe and healthy while living abroad is crucial, and access to contraception is a vital component of this. Expats in Singapore can access contraception through healthcare facilities and online pharmacies. It’s essential to do your research and choose the option that best suits your needs and budget. Remember, your sexual health is essential, and there’s no shame in taking care of yourself.
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