Morning After Pill Options and Access in Singapore

It’s important for couples in Singapore to be aware of emergency contraception, as intimacy can lead to unplanned pregnancy. When unprotected sex occurs, the morning after pill—also referred to as emergency contraception—offers a safety net. In this extensive guide, we explore the essential elements of the morning-after pill in Singapore with a focus on where and how to get it.

Understanding the Morning-After Pill

Individuals can use the morning-after pill, also known as emergency contraception, to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (like a broken condom). It’s crucial to recognize that the morning-after pill serves as an emergency solution, not as a regular form of contraception.

Different Brands for morning after pills in Singapore 

Couples must make informed decisions when considering emergency contraception options when faced with the need for choosing the best option. Postinor-2 and Ella are the two most popular morning after pills in Singapore.

Postinor-2 contains Levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that resembles progesterone, whereas Ella contains Ulipristal Acetate, a non-hormonal option that interferes with progesterone’s normal function.

• Levonorgestrel (Postinor-2)

Since the 1970s, Postinor-2, which contains Levonorgestrel, has been a reliable emergency contraceptive. In Singapore, the brand name for the morning-after pill is ‘Postinor-2.’ Take two tablets of Postinor-2 as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.

• Ulipristal Acetate (Ella)

Ella, a Singapore-approved tablet containing Ulipristal Acetate, is a new addition to the market, recommended for immediate use after unprotected intercourse within 120 hours (5 days).

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the comparison,let’s understand the main features of both Postinor-2 and Ella as this is crucial for making an informed decision.

Usage:

• Postinor-2: The regimen involves taking two tablets as soon as possible within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex.
• Ella: Take a single tablet as soon as possible within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.

Effectiveness:

• Several clinical studies have shown that Ella is more effective than Postinor-2, particularly within the first 120 hours after unprotected intercourse. Women who choose Ella have a lower risk of pregnancy, with specific benefits for those with a higher BMI.

Cost:

• It’s critical to take the money into account. Ella is more expensive than the more well-known Postinor-2 because it is a more recent addition to the market.

Choosing Between Postinor-2 and Ella

Several factors, including cost, effectiveness, and usage, influence the choice between Ella and Postinor-2.

Choosing Based on Usage

Ella’s 120-hour timeframe might be beneficial for those seeking a morning after pill in Singapore with a longer window of effectiveness. On the other hand, taking swift action within the first 72 hours makes Postinor-2 a viable option.

Effectiveness and Risk Factors

For people who have specific risk factors, effectiveness must be considered. Ella may be a better option for women with higher BMIs because it is more effective overall and poses fewer risks.

Cost Considerations

Even though both options are effective, budget considerations may have an impact on the choice. If cost is a priority, consider Postinor-2 as a better choice, given that Ella, a well-known alternative, is considered slightly more expensive.

Where to Get the Morning After Pill in Singapore

Availability at neighbourhood pharmacies and the need for a prescription are a few things to take into account when getting the morning-after pill in Singapore.

Prescription Requirement

Singapore’s morning-after pill is sold as a prescription-only drug, unlike other countries where it is sold without a prescription. This means that before purchasing the morning-after pill, one must obtain a legitimate prescription from a medical professional.

Consulting Healthcare Providers

The journey begins with consulting a healthcare provider who can assess individual health conditions, provide necessary information, and issue a prescription for the morning-after pill. This ensures a personalised approach to emergency contraception.

Local Pharmacies

After obtaining a prescription, individuals can then proceed to local pharmacies to fill it. However, it is important to note that not all pharmacies carry both brands of the morning-after pill, Postinor-2 and Ella.Therefore, it’s best to give a call in advance to verify that the desired brand is available.

• Guardian and Watsons: These well-known Singaporean pharmacy chains are popular places to get prescription drugs, including the morning-after pill. People can conveniently fill their prescriptions at these establishments.

• Independent Pharmacies: Apart from large chains, independent pharmacies might also provide emergency contraceptive options. It is advised to check with neighbourhood independent pharmacies, especially if convenience or proximity is a priority.

Telemedicine Solutions 

With the development of telemedicine, individuals can now access consultations remotely. For people who are unable to visit a physical clinic, platforms such as Dame, which is licensed by Singapore’s Ministry of Health, offer discreet delivery services and same-day consultations, making the process easier.

Telemedicine Solutions – Dame Singapore

Dame, a licensed telemedicine clinic in Singapore, provides a convenient solution to help individuals obtain emergency contraception quickly.

• Same-Day Consultation : Dame offers same-day consultations, ensuring individuals can access healthcare advice promptly.

• Discreet Packaging and Delivery : With a commitment to privacy, Dame ensures discreet packaging and delivery services, allowing individuals to receive the morning-after pill without additional stress.

• Accessible Support : For urgent assistance or inquiries, Dame provides a WhatsApp hotline at +65 8892 8269 offering support beyond traditional service.

Summary

In conclusion, Postinor-2 and Ella are effective emergency contraception options, but their usage, effectiveness, and cost can vary significantly. Individual preferences and circumstances should be considered when choosing. Healthcare providers should provide personalised advice, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their morning after pill, contributing to responsible family planning in Singapore.

To read more about the morning after pill, please click here.