Contraception

There are many forms of contraceptives available. As every woman’s health and preferences are unique, there is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to contraception.

Women have many reasons for seeking contraception. Contraception allows women to choose when to have a baby. Responsible contraceptive practices also help to reduce unwanted pregnancies and abortions. Factors to consider include existing medical conditions, cost, whether one prefers permanent or temporary/reversible contraception, and so on.

	Effectiveness	Options Available	Frequency or Length of Use	Return of Fertility After Discontinuation	Requires Gynae Visit?	Requires Prescription?	STD and AIDS Protection
Hormonal Contraception
Oral contraceptive pills	99%	Numerous brands available	Daily at around the same time each day	Immediate	Yes, To learn proper pill usage	✓	☓
Injections	99%	1	Once every 3 months	After 6 to 12 months	✓	✓	☓
Mirena (IUS)	98%	1	5 years or less	Immediate	Yes, To be inserted by the doctor	✓	☓
Implanon NXT	99%	1	3 years or less	Usually quickly	Yes, To be inserted by the doctor	✓	☓
NuvaRing	99%	1	Replace every 3 weeks	Immediate	Yes, To learn proper method of insertion	✓	☓
Non-hormonal Contraception
Male condom	90% (with spermicide)	Variety of size, material and texture	Every time one has intercourse	Immediate	☓	☓	✓
Intrauterine Device (IUD)	98%	1	3 to 5 years or less	Immediate	Yes, To be inserted by the doctor	✓	☓
Permanent Contraception
Sterilisation	Over 99%	2 (laparoscopic clips or transvaginal tubal ligation)	Permanent	Never	Yes, To be performed by the doctor	✓	☓

Contraception in Singapore