Contraception
Contraception, commonly known as birth control, refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy. These methods range from daily pills to long-term solutions like intrauterine devices (IUDs) and permanent procedures like tubal ligation.
Contraception enables women to take charge of their reproductive health, ensuring that they can plan pregnancies on their own terms.
Choosing the right method depends on lifestyle, health conditions, and personal preferences—Some contraception solutions, such as the pill, even offer hormonal regulation benefits.
Contraception Methods Available in Singapore
Women in Singapore have access to various contraception methods, including:
- Condoms
- Oral contraceptive pills (combined or progestin-only)
- Contraceptive patches
- Contraceptive injections
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs) (hormonal or copper)
- Implants
- Barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms)
- Tubal ligation (permanent, non-reversible contraceptive)
One of the most common birth control methods used in Singapore is condoms—they are 98% effective when used correctly, but there is also a chance of a condom being improperly used or tearing during intercourse.
Do note that condoms are the only contraception in Singapore that are available over-the-counter and offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If you’ve had unprotected sex, it’s a good idea to check in on your sexual health. An STI screening can help give you peace of mind and control over your health.
How to Get Birth Control in Singapore
Most contraception methods are available through general practitioners, women’s health clinics, and gynaecologists. Most contraceptives in Singapore require a doctor’s prescription, while others can be purchased over the counter at pharmacies.
For emergency contraception, a doctor’s consultation may be required before purchasing the morning-after pill.
1
Birth Control Pills (BCPs)
Birth control pills contain oestrogen and progesterone, which regulate hormone levels so as to prevent ovulation. They also thicken cervical mucus, making it tougher for sperm to reach an egg. Lastly, they alter the uterine lining to reduce the chances of implantation.
Procedure: Pills are taken daily for three weeks, followed by a one-week break for menstruation. Your doctor will advise whether to start on Day 1 or Day 5 of your cycle.
Efficacy: When taken correctly, BCPs are 98-99% effective.
Pros: The pill can help regulate menstrual cycles, especially for women with irregular periods.
Cons: Must be taken strictly daily—missing a pill may require medical advice to maintain protection.
The pill is not suitable for:
Breastfeeding mothers
Women with medical conditions such as ischaemic heart disease, stroke, diabetes, liver disorders or high blood pressure
Severe migraines
Women with a history of blood clots
Breast cancer or undiagnosed breast mass
Women over 49, or especially smokers 35 years old and above
2
Birth Control Patch
A birth control patch is adhesively worn on the skin. Like birth control pills, it releases hormones to prevent ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and alters the uterine lining to prevent fertilisation and implantation. The patch delivers oestrogen and progestin through the skin into the bloodstream.
Procedure: Apply a new patch weekly for three consecutive weeks, placing it on the abdomen, buttocks, back, or upper arm. In the fourth week, no patch is worn to allow for menstruation.
Efficacy: When used correctly, the birth control patch is 91-99% effective.
Pros: May lead to clearer skin, lighter periods, and reduced menstrual cramps. It’s a low-maintenance option for women who prefer not to take a daily contraceptive.
Cons: Some women experience skin irritation, nausea, tender breasts, or spotting between periods. The patch may feel uncomfortable initially, but most side effects subside after 2-3 months.
3
Contraceptive Injection
The contraceptive injection is a long-acting hormonal birth control method that contains progestin (Depo-Provera). It prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to hinder sperm, and thins the uterine lining to reduce the chances of implantation.
Procedure: Administered once every 12 weeks (4 times a year) via injection, typically in the buttocks or upper arm. It must be repeated on schedule to maintain effectiveness.
Efficacy: When used correctly, the contraceptive injection is 98% effective.
Pros: A low-maintenance option that only requires a visit every 3 months. It may also lower the risk of endometrial cancer.
Cons: Menstrual changes are common—some women stop getting periods entirely, while others could experience irregular spotting or regular menstruation. Weight gain can also occur as the body adjusts in the first few months.
4
Contraceptive Implant
An implant is inserted under the skin, usually in the upper arm. It is a small and flexible rod that slowly releases progestin to reduce the chance of fertilisation and implantation.
Procedure: A doctor inserts the implant under the skin using a small 1 cm incision. It remains effective for up to 3 years and can be removed anytime if contraception is no longer needed.
Efficacy: When used correctly, the contraceptive implant is 99% effective.
Pros: A long-term, hassle-free option with no need for frequent checkups. Some women experience lighter or absent periods, and fertility returns quickly after removal.
Cons: The procedure may cause mild scarring. Some women experience irregular bleeding, weight gain, headaches, tender breasts, or nausea.
5
Tubal Ligation (Female Sterilisation)
Tubal ligation is a permanent contraception method that involves surgically blocking or sealing one’s fallopian tubes, thereby preventing eggs from reaching the uterus.
Procedure: A minor day surgery performed under anaesthesia, usually via laparoscopy. The fallopian tubes are cut and sealed or clipped to block the passage of eggs.
Efficacy: 99.5% effective.
Pros: A permanent solution to contraception, eliminating the need for further contraceptive management.
Cons: Irreversible. There is still a 0.5% chance of failure, meaning 1 in 200 women may still conceive, with a risk of ectopic pregnancy.
Hormonal vs. Non-Hormonal Contraceptives
Feature | Hormonal IUD | Copper IUD |
|---|---|---|
How it Works | Releases progesterone to thicken the cervical mucus and prevent implantation by stopping sperm from entering the uterus. | Acts as a physical barrier; copper is toxic to sperm |
Hormones | Yes (progestin) | No |
Pros | – Can help lighten heavy menstrual flow – Lasts up to 5 years | – Zero hormone-related side effects – Lasts up to 10 years |
Cons | Side effects can include mood changes, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding or spotting and acne—These side effects might resolve once your body gets used to the IUD. | Side effects include irregular periods, heavier periods and more cramps. |
Efficacy | 99%
Immediately effective if inserted on Day 5 of menstruation. | 99% |
Emergency Contraception | No | Yes (if inserted within 5 days) |
For IUDs, annual check-ups are essential to ensure that the device remains securely in place and continues to protect you effectively.
If you’re getting an IUD for the first time, you may experience mild discomfort or cramping, similar to period pain, which typically lasts a few hours. Do not worry—this is a normal response as your body adjusts, and the discomfort can usually be managed with rest or over-the-counter pain relief.
Emergency Contraception: The Morning-After Pill
Emergency contraception is a backup option if regular birth control fails. For maximum effectiveness, it’s essential to take the pill as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. The pill works by delaying or preventing ovulation, but it cannot reverse a pregnancy.
Feature | Morning-After Pill | |
|---|---|---|
Efficacy | 75-89% (More effective the closer it is taken to sexual intercourse) | |
Instructions | Taken within 72 hours or 5 days after unprotected sex | |
Side Effects | Nausea, spotting, fatigue
| |
When to Take | As soon as possible after unprotected sex | |
Doctor’s Prescription | Necessary for both types of pills | |
The levonorgestrel pill (Plan B, Postinor-2) is effective within 72 hours, while the ulipristal acetate pill (Ella®) works up to 5 days after unprotected sex.
Birth Control & Sexual Health at Prologue
Contraception is an essential part of a woman’s reproductive journey, whether you’re planning for the future or seeking a reliable option after an unexpected moment.
Your doctor will consider your medical history, family planning goals, existing gynaecological conditions, and lifestyle to guide you toward the best birth control choice—one that empowers you to take charge of your health with confidence and ease.
While contraception prevents pregnancy, it does not protect against STIs. If you are sexually active, regular STD screenings are essential.
Prologue offers comprehensive women’s health screenings to help you stay informed and protected.
FAQ
Which birth control method is most effective?
Long-term options like IUDs and implants are over 99% effective.
Can the pull out method prevent pregnancy?
While some couples choose the withdrawal method, or pulling out, as a natural alternative to contraception, it is one of the least reliable methods, with an effectiveness rate of only about 78%—meaning 1 in 5 couples will experience an unplanned pregnancy.
Withdrawing correctly can also be challenging, and even with perfect timing, sperm may still be present in pre-ejaculate, increasing the chance of pregnancy.
For women seeking a more dependable and stress-free option, consulting a doctor about contraception in Singapore is recommended.
Can I get birth control without a prescription?
Condoms are available over the counter, but pills, IUDs, and implants require a doctor’s consultation.
Does birth control affect fertility?
Most reversible methods do not permanently affect fertility.
What are the side effects of birth control?
Side effects vary, but common symptoms include nausea, mood changes, and irregular bleeding.
How soon does birth control start working?
It depends on the contraceptive method. For example, if you start taking the pill within the first five days of your period, it works immediately; otherwise, it takes 7 days. Copper IUDs and diaphragms are effective immediately.
Can I take the morning-after pill regularly?
The morning-after pill is not meant as a regular birth control method and should only be an emergency option. Repeated use may cause side effects such as menstrual irregularities, nausea, fatigue, and hormonal imbalance.
What's the difference between birth control and emergency contraception in Singapore?
Birth control is preventative, while emergency contraception is reactive. The morning-after pill is also less effective than routine birth control methods, offering only 75-89% efficacy.
Should I take birth control to help with acne?
Birth control pills containing oestrogen and progestin can help with acne management. Consult a doctor to determine if this option suits your skin and overall health needs.
