What Is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception refers to methods used after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy. It is not the same as an abortion pill — EC works by delaying or preventing ovulation, or preventing fertilisation. It does not terminate an established pregnancy.

Emergency contraception should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. The longer you wait, the less effective it becomes.

Types of Morning After Pill Available in Singapore

1. Levonorgestrel (LNG) — The 72-Hour Pill

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestogen that has been used worldwide since the 1990s. In Singapore, it is available under prescription from licensed doctors and select pharmacies.

• Timing: Most effective within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex; can be taken up to 120 hours, but effectiveness decreases significantly after 72 hours
• Effectiveness: Up to 95% effective if taken within 24 hours; approximately 58% if taken between 49–72 hours
• Side effects: Nausea, headache, fatigue, irregular bleeding, breast tenderness
• Weight note: May be less effective in women over 75 kg — UPA may be a better option

2. Ulipristal Acetate (UPA) — ellaOne / Ella — The 120-Hour Pill

Ulipristal acetate delays or inhibits ovulation, including when LH surge has already begun — making it more effective later in the fertile window than levonorgestrel.

• Timing: Effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex; maintains more consistent effectiveness throughout the 5-day window
• Effectiveness: Significantly more effective than LNG between 72–120 hours. Pregnancy rates: 1.8% (UPA) vs 2.6% (LNG) in Glasier 2010 trial
• Note: Prescription-only in Singapore; should not be taken alongside hormonal contraceptives

Where to Get Emergency Contraception in Singapore

Option 1: See a GP

Any licensed GP in Singapore can prescribe emergency contraception. Walk-in or phone to check availability.

Option 2: Public Polyclinics / NUHCS

Singapore public polyclinics can prescribe emergency contraception during operating hours.

Option 3: Family Planning Clinics

Singapore Family Planning Association and other sexual health clinics provide EC with counselling.

Option 4: Online Doctor Consultation via Zoey

You can consult a licensed Singapore doctor online through Zoey and receive a prescription within hours — no in-person visit required, fully confidential.

Is Emergency Contraception Legal in Singapore?

Yes. Both levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate are legally available in Singapore as prescription medicines. They are registered with the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Over-the-counter access without a prescription is not permitted — a valid prescription from a licensed doctor is required.

What Happens After You Take It?

Your next period may come earlier or later than expected. Spotting or irregular bleeding is normal. If your period is more than a week late, take a pregnancy test. EC does not protect against STIs — get tested separately if there is any concern.

Ongoing Contraception: Beyond Emergency Use

EC is not intended as a regular contraceptive method. Speak to a doctor about more reliable options: oral contraceptive pills, IUDs, implants, or injectable contraception. Zoey can help you find the right ongoing contraceptive option.

FAQ — Emergency Contraception Singapore

Can I buy the morning after pill over the counter in Singapore?
No. Both levonorgestrel and ella are prescription-only in Singapore. You need a valid prescription from a licensed doctor — available online through Zoey.

How effective is emergency contraception?
LNG is up to 95% effective within 24 hours; effectiveness decreases with time. UPA (ella) maintains higher effectiveness across the 5-day window.

Can I use emergency contraception multiple times?
EC is safe to use more than once, but it is not a reliable ongoing contraceptive method and should not replace regular contraception.

Will emergency contraception affect my fertility?
No. EC does not affect long-term fertility.

Does emergency contraception protect against STIs?
No. EC only reduces pregnancy risk. For STI concerns, get tested and use condoms.

Get EC Fast — Online via Zoey

If you need emergency contraception in Singapore, Zoey connects you with a licensed doctor online — fast, confidential, and without the need to visit a clinic in person.

→ Get a prescription via Zoey