Birth Control
The Complete Guide to Birth Control in Singapore: Options, Cost & Online Prescriptions
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Medically reviewed by Dr. Kevin Chua, Medical Director Last updated: April 2026
Contraception is a fundamental aspect of women's reproductive health, yet navigating the options in Singapore can be overwhelming. From the combined oral contraceptive pill (OCP) to IUDs, implants, and emergency contraception, each method has its own efficacy profile, side effects, and cost. This guide covers everything Singaporean women need to know to make an informed choice.
Modern contraception offers women a range of highly effective options. Understanding each method's efficacy, convenience, and side effect profile is key to making the right choice.
| Method | Typical Use Failure Rate | Perfect Use Failure Rate | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combined OCP | 7% | 0.3% | Daily |
| Progestogen-only pill (POP) | 7% | 0.3% | Daily |
| Hormonal IUD (Mirena) | 0.1% | 0.1% | 5 years |
| Copper IUD | 0.8% | 0.6% | 5-10 years |
| Implant (Implanon) | 0.1% | 0.1% | 3 years |
| Injection (Depo-Provera) | 4% | 0.2% | 3 months |
| Condom (male) | 13% | 2% | Per use |
| Withdrawal | 20% | 4% | Per use |
| Fertility awareness | 12-24% | 1-5% | Ongoing |
"Typical use" includes human error (missed pills, etc.). "Perfect use" assumes flawless adherence.
The combined oral contraceptive pill (OCP) contains both oestrogen and progestogen. It is the most commonly used hormonal contraceptive in Singapore.
The pill prevents pregnancy through three mechanisms: 1. Suppresses ovulation — the primary mechanism 2. Thickens cervical mucus — prevents sperm from reaching the egg 3. Thins the endometrium — reduces likelihood of implantation
| Brand | Oestrogen | Progestogen | Generation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yasmin | EE 30 mcg | Drospirenone | 4th |
| Yaz | EE 20 mcg | Drospirenone | 4th |
| Diane-35 | EE 35 mcg | Cyproterone acetate | 1st gen progestogen |
| Microgynon 30 | EE 30 mcg | Levonorgestrel | 2nd |
| Marvelon | EE 30 mcg | Desogestrel | 3rd |
| Mercilon | EE 20 mcg | Desogestrel | 3rd |
→ Read more: Types of Birth Control Pills (SG-Z-BC-01) → Read more: Side Effects of the Pill (SG-Z-BC-02)
Progestogen-only options are suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen (e.g., smokers over 35, history of migraine with aura, certain cardiovascular conditions).
LARC methods are the most effective forms of contraception and require no daily action. They are increasingly recommended as first-line options.
Emergency contraception (EC) prevents pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is not intended as a regular contraceptive method.
| Method | Timing | Efficacy | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Levonorgestrel (Postinor-2) | Within 72 hours | ~85% | Pharmacy (behind counter) |
| Ulipristal acetate (EllaOne) | Within 120 hours | ~98% | Prescription |
| Copper IUD insertion | Within 120 hours | >99% | Doctor insertion |
Important: EC is more effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex.
The "best" contraceptive is the one you'll use consistently and that suits your health profile and lifestyle. Consider the following factors when making your decision.
| Factor | Consider |
|---|---|
| Convenience | How important is daily pill compliance vs "set and forget"? |
| Hormonal vs non-hormonal | Any contraindications to oestrogen? Preference for hormone-free? |
| Period management | Want lighter periods? Fewer cramps? |
| Future fertility | Planning pregnancy within 1-2 years? 5+ years? |
| Side effect tolerance | Sensitive to hormonal changes? |
| Cost | One-time LARC investment vs ongoing pill costs? |
| STI protection | Only condoms protect against STIs |
→ Read more: How to Choose Birth Control (SG-Z-BC-04)
zoey™ provides MOH-compliant online prescriptions for oral contraceptives, making it easy to access birth control without a clinic visit.
| Method | Monthly Cost (SGD) | 5-Year Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|---|
| Combined OCP (generic) | S$15–30 | S$900–1,800 |
| Combined OCP (branded, e.g., Yasmin) | S$30–50 | S$1,800–3,000 |
| Hormonal IUD (Mirena) | ~S$17/month (one-time S$500–800 + insertion) | S$500–800 |
| Copper IUD | ~S$10/month (one-time S$300–500 + insertion) | S$300–500 |
| Implant (Implanon) | ~S$15/month (one-time S$300–500 + insertion) | S$300–500 (for 3 years) |
| Condoms | S$10–30 | S$600–1,800 |
LARC methods have higher upfront costs but are the most cost-effective over time.
Most modern low-dose pills have minimal effect on weight. Controlled studies show little difference between pill users and non-users(Based on MOH guidelines and prescribing information).
No medical evidence supports taking periodic breaks from hormonal contraception. Breaks increase the risk of unintended pregnancy without providing health benefits.
The pill does not affect long-term fertility. Ovulation typically returns within 1-3 months of stopping.
Modern IUDs (especially Kyleena) are suitable for women who have never been pregnant. This outdated recommendation has been revised by medical guidelines globally.
Yes. zoey™ provides online prescriptions for oral contraceptives after a doctor assessment. Medications are delivered discreetly to your door.
No. A Pap smear is recommended as part of routine cervical screening but is not required before starting contraception.
Pills containing anti-androgenic progestogens (drospirenone in Yasmin/Yaz, cyproterone acetate in Diane-35) are most effective for acne.
Yes. Continuous pill use (skipping the placebo/break week) is medically safe and increasingly common. Discuss with your doctor.
Follow the specific guidance for your pill type. Generally: take the missed pill as soon as remembered; use backup contraception (condoms) for 7 days if you miss 2+ pills.
Insertion involves brief cramping (similar to a strong period cramp). Pain management options include local anaesthesia and pre-treatment with NSAIDs. Most women tolerate it well.
Whenever you want more reliable protection. Condoms have a 13% typical-use failure rate; hormonal methods range from 0.1–7%. Note: only condoms protect against STIs.
Yes. Emergency contraception is safe for occasional use. It should not replace regular contraception, but it is not harmful to use when needed.
The combined OCP is not recommended during breastfeeding (oestrogen may reduce milk supply). The progestogen-only pill is safe during breastfeeding.
Yes. All zoey™ deliveries arrive in plain, unmarked packaging.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Contraceptive prescriptions require a doctor's assessment. Always consult a licensed doctor before starting any contraception. zoey™ consultations are conducted by SMC-registered doctors in accordance with MOH telemedicine guidelines.
© 2026 zoey™ — A brand of Ordinary Folk Pte. Ltd.
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