Morning-After Pill (Plan B)

What is the Morning-After Pill?

The morning-after pill is a type of emergency contraception (EC) used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It works by delaying ovulation and is most effective when taken as soon as possible. Unlike regular birth control pills or medical abortion, the morning-after pill does not terminate an existing pregnancy and should not be mistaken for abortion medication.

In Singapore, it is supplied solely under a doctor’s prescription, ensuring each woman receives prompt medical advice on the most appropriate option, correct timing, and potential drug interactions. The two prescription ECs that are licensed in Singapore are:

• Levonorgestrel
• Ulipristal acetate

How does the Morning-After Pill work?

EC works by delaying or inhibiting ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. By postponing ovulation, it lowers the risk of sperm meeting an egg. That is why the pill must be taken before ovulation occurs. As there are 2 main types of morning-after pills available in Singapore, each has a different mechanism and time frame:

It is important to understand that neither option affects a fertilised egg or an implanted pregnancy. However, a morning-after pill may not be as effective for women who are:

• Beyond 5 days since unprotected sex
• Overweight with a BMI of more than 25
• Taking medications that reduce efficacy

Given these considerations, it is essential to consult a doctor before taking the morning-after pill to ensure it is safe, appropriate, and effective for your individual needs.

How effective is the Morning-After Pill at delaying ovulation?

The morning-after pill is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Its main function is to prevent ovulation, so once an egg has been released, the pill will no longer work. This makes timing critical.

EC pills can reduce the risk of pregnancy by 75% to 90%, depending on when they are taken and which type is used. But generally, the timing is as follows:

What affects how well Plan B works?

Several personal and medical factors can reduce the effectiveness of emergency contraception. This includes:

• Body weight and BMI
• Delays in taking the pill
• Medications, such as certain epilepsy treatments, some HIV medications and herbal supplements

Who should consider taking the Morning-After Pill? 

While EC is often used as a backup, it is also a safe and responsible option when regular contraceptive methods fall short. You should consider the morning-after pill if:

• A condom broke, slipped off, or was not used
• You missed one or more birth control pills, or forgot to apply a patch or insert a ring
• You did not use any contraception during sex
• You experienced non-consensual intercourse, such as sexual assault or coercion
• You simply wish to prevent pregnancy after an unexpected encounter. However, regardless of age, you may consult a doctor for timely access to emergency contraception

What are the benefits of the Morning-After Pill?

The morning-after pill offers several important advantages, including:

• Can provide a second chance without long-term consequences, as fertility returns to normal after use
• Empowering women in difficult or unexpected situations, such as coercion or sexual violence
• No impact on future fertility when used occasionally and responsibly 
• Non-invasive and easy to take, as in most cases, only a single dose is required
• Timely prevention of pregnancy after contraceptive failure or unprotected sex
• Widely accessible under medical guidance

How do I get the Morning-After Pill in Singapore?

At Phoenix Medical Group, we aim to provide prompt, respectful, and fully confidential care when you need EC. Here is what you can expect during your visit:

Private consultation

You will begin with a discreet, same-day consultation in a calm and non-judgmental setting. Our doctor will:

• Assess the timing of unprotected intercourse
• Review your medical history and current medications
• Determine where you are in your menstrual cycle

This helps our doctors evaluate your pregnancy risk and identify the most appropriate EC option.

On-site pregnancy testing (if required)

If you are presenting later in your cycle or have missed or delayed period, our doctor may recommend a rapid pregnancy test. This is to ensure emergency contraception is suitable and safe to proceed.

Personalised prescription

EC is not one-size-fits-all. Our doctor will recommend the most effective option based on:

• How long has it been since unprotected sex
• Your BMI and body weight
• Any medications or supplements that you are taking

One-to-one counselling and support

You will then receive personalised guidance on:

• How and when to take the pill
• What side effects to expect and when to seek help
• When will your next period arrive
• How to resume or transition to regular contraception

Aftercare instructions

You will also be advised to adhere to the following guidelines to ensure the pill's efficacy. This includes:

• Avoid further unprotected sex until your next period. Use condoms if you resume intercourse.
• If you are using hormonal contraception like pills, patches, and rings:
  • Levonorgestrel – you may restart immediately
  • Ulipristal acetate – wait 5 full days before resuming hormonal contraception to avoid drug interactions
• Expect your next period within a week of its usual timing, either slightly early or delayed. If your period is more than a week late or unusually light, repeat a pregnancy test.

Summary

When it comes to EC, timing and trust matter. At Phoenix Medical, we provide confidential, same-day access with minimal waiting. This is because we understand that every hour counts. Whether you are managing a contraceptive mishap, facing uncertainty after unprotected sex, or simply want peace of mind, our team is here to support you with evidence-based care and compassionate guidance.

We offer:

• Discreet consultations at convenient island-wide locations
• Female doctors are available on request, ensuring comfort during sensitive discussions
• Personalised prescriptions tailored to your timing, weight, and health profile
• Comprehensive sexual health counselling, including guidance on long-term contraception
• A commitment to respectful, non-judgmental, patient-centred care

Prompt action is vital. The effectiveness of the morning-after pill declines the longer you wait. If you need emergency contraception, do not delay. Book a consultation online or call us directly. 

Frequently Asked Questions