Emergency Contraceptives
Often referred to as the ‘morning-after pill,’ emergency contraceptives aim to prevent an unplanned pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, including a broken condom and missed birth control pills.
They delay or prevent ovulation (the release of an egg), which in turn prevents the sperm from fertilising the egg. However, they do not terminate an existing pregnancy.
While emergency contraception is safe to use, these contraceptives should not replace more reliable long-term methods such as birth control pills, implants or IUDs.
At Prologue The Lifestyle Medical Clinic, we believe every woman has the right to choose if and when she wants to become a parent. We provide confidential, compassionate and efficient services to help you make a safe choice.
Confidential & Discreet
Your privacy is our top priority. Consultations are conducted securely via telemedicine or in person in our clinic. Once prescribed, your medication is delivered in plain, unbranded packaging for complete discretion. From the moment you reach out to the moment your package arrives, we protect your confidentiality.
Transparent and Inclusive Pricing
We believe in clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs. Our packages include the full consultation, the emergency contraceptive pill and delivery straight to your door. No hidden charges.
Licensed Singapore doctors
All consultations are conducted by MOH-licensed Singapore doctors trained in evidence-based care. You do not need to see a gynaecologist unless there is a specific medical indication, which allows for a fast, straightforward and safe process.
Our doctors provide professional guidance on using emergency contraception and can advise if follow-up care or longer-term contraception is appropriate.
At Prologue The Lifestyle Medical Clinic, we provide access to a range of emergency contraception options, each with a different window of effectiveness. Our licensed doctors will help you determine the most suitable choice based on your specific situation.
Levonorgestrel-Based Pills (e.g., Postinor-2, Plan B)
This is a widely used form of emergency contraception. For optimal results, it should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, with a maximum window of 72 hours (3 days). Its effectiveness is highest within the first 24 hours, reaching up to approximately 95%, and gradually decreases to about 58% by the 72-hour mark.
Ulipristal Acetate (e.g., Ella)
Ulipristal acetate can be used up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. It provides a strong option when more time has passed since the incident, with a success rate of about 85%. Ulipristal works by inhibiting or delaying ovulation and can be preferred if levonorgestrel pills are taken later within the 5-day window.
Copper IUD (Optional)
The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device made of copper that is inserted into the uterus. It is the most reliable form of emergency contraception, with a success rate exceeding 99% when inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex. The copper creates an environment that prevents sperm from fertilising an egg.
Different options vary in how quickly they should be used and their overall success rates. Here’s a quick reference:
Method | Time After Unprotected Sex | Typical Effectiveness |
Levonorgestrel-based pills (Postinor-2, Plan B) | Within 24 hours | About 95% effective |
At 72 hours (3 days) | About 58% effective | |
Ulipristal acetate | Up to 120 hours (5 days) | Approximately 85% effective |
Copper IUD | Within 5 days | More than 99% effective |
Bear in mind that no method is 100% guaranteed. Emergency contraception is intended as a backup method and should not replace regular contraceptive measures.
Most people experience only mild and temporary side effects. These can include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Fatigue
- Spotting or light bleeding
- Changes to the timing or flow of your next menstrual period
These effects usually resolve within a few days and do not pose long-term health risks. The morning after pill may cause the next period to be irregular. If your period is late or abnormal, consult your healthcare provider and consider taking a pregnancy test.
Rare but serious side effects include:
- Widespread itchy rashes
- Swollen face, eyes, lips, tongue
- Difficulty breathing
Emergency contraception is suitable for any woman of reproductive age who has had unprotected sex or experienced contraceptive failure (e.g., a broken condom) and wishes to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy. This includes teens and breastfeeding women.
However, some studies suggest that the efficacy of certain emergency contraceptive pills, particularly levonorgestrel-based options, may be reduced in individuals with higher body weight or BMI.
During your consultation, our doctor will discuss this with you and recommend the most effective type of emergency contraception based on your individual health profile
Emergency Contraceptives at Prologue
Emergency contraception is a time-sensitive medication, and we believe getting it should be as fast and accessible as possible. Here’s what you can expect in terms of cost and the different ways to obtain it.
Teleconsultation + Pill + Delivery
Our all-in-one teleconsultation service offers maximum convenience and privacy. The service is all-inclusive. This means it covers:
- Your private teleconsultation with a licensed doctor.
- The emergency contraceptive pill itself (the cost may vary depending on the type prescribed).
- Discreet, same-day delivery to your doorstep.
This is ideal for those who need urgent care without the travel, waiting time or potential discomfort of a physical clinic visit.
Note: For first-time contraception patients, we strongly recommend getting the prescription in-clinic, where we can check your blood pressure, and BMI and urine pregnancy test to ensure the method is suitable for you.
Clinic Consultation + Pill
If you prefer a face-to-face consultation, our clinic-based option allows you to meet with a licensed doctor in person. The doctor will assess your health, discuss emergency contraception options and provide the pill on the spot.
Pricing typically covers the consultation and medication. Delivery fees do not apply since you receive the medication directly at the clinic.
Pill Delivery Only
For patients who already have a valid prescription, we offer delivery-only services. The pill is sent discreetly to your address in plain packaging, so you can take it promptly without visiting the clinic or scheduling a new consultation.
FAQ
Can anyone collect EC for me?
No. In Singapore, EC requires a prescription from a licensed doctor, and medication must be dispensed to the patient directly. This allows proper medical assessment, correct dosing and safe use.
Teleconsultation and delivery options make it possible to receive EC privately without needing someone else to collect it for you.
How long after sex is EC effective?
The sooner you take EC, the more effective it is. Here’s a quick guide:
- Levonorgestrel pills: Most reliable within 24 hours, up to 72 hours, with success decreasing over time.
- Ulipristal acetate: Can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.
- Copper IUD: Can be inserted within 5 days for the highest level of protection and also provides long-term contraception.
What if I vomit after taking it?
If you vomit within 2 hours of taking a levonorgestrel-based pill (Postinor-2), or within 3 hours of taking ulipristal acetate (Ella), you will need to take another dose. The medication may not have been fully absorbed into your system. Please contact your doctor for a new prescription and guidance.
Can EC be used frequently?
Emergency contraception is intended for emergency use only, not as a regular form of birth control. Frequent use may be less reliable than consistent, long-term options such as birth control pills, implants or IUDs. Our doctors can advise on ongoing contraception if you need EC regularly.
Does EC protect against STIs?
No, an emergency birth control only helps prevent pregnancy. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. Condoms are the only form of contraception that protects against both pregnancy and STIs.
If you have had unprotected sex, we highly recommend that you take an STD test to protect your sexual health.
If my period is late, should I take a pregnancy test?
Yes. If your period is delayed by more than a week after taking emergency contraception, take a pregnancy test. This helps detect any potential pregnancy early and allows you to discuss next steps with a doctor if needed.