The decision to prevent or end a pregnancy is a deeply personal one, and there are several options available for those who find themselves in such a situation. The two most common options available are the morning-after pill and the abortion pill. While these two terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. They work in very different ways and have different purposes. Whether you have had unprotected sex and are looking to prevent pregnancy or understand how medical abortion in Singapore can help you, this article will give you a comprehensive idea of both.
Morning After Pill
The morning-after pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a pill taken after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to prevent pregnancy. It contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that can prevent ovulation, fertilisation, or the implantation of a fertilised egg in the uterus.
There are two types of morning-after pills: the levonorgestrel pill (popularly known by the brand name Plan B) and the ulipristal acetate pill (popularly known by the brand name Ella).
The levonorgestrel pill is a prescription only medication, and when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, it can reduce your risk of pregnancy by up to 87%. It is even more effective when taken within 12 hours of unprotected intercourse. However, it must be noted that this effectiveness decreases over time.
The ulipristal acetate pill is considered more effective than other morning pills and is only available with a prescription. When taken within 120 hours of unprotected sex, it lowers your chances of pregnancy by 85%.
It is important to note that the morning-after pill is not a regular birth control pill. It is also not an abortion pill, and it will not terminate an existing pregnancy.
Abortion Pill
The abortion pill, which is typically used in medical abortions in Singapore, is a non-surgical option for terminating an early pregnancy (up to 9 weeks). It involves taking two medications, mifepristone, and misoprostol, that work together to end the pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed for foetal growth, while misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel its contents. The abortion pill can be used up to 9 weeks into a pregnancy, but it must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and taken under medical supervision.
It is important to note that the abortion pill is not a form of emergency contraception and should not be used as such. The abortion pill is a safe and effective option for ending an early pregnancy, but it does have potential side effects such as cramping, bleeding, and nausea.
Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a certified medical practitioner, who will be able to advise you on the most suitable pregnancy termination method and the abortion clinic cost in Singapore.
Differences Between the Morning After Pill and Abortion Pill
| Morning After Pill | Abortion Pill |
| Intended for use before a pregnancy is established. | Used to terminate an existing pregnancy. |
| Both levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate pills require a prescription in Singapore. | Requires a prescription and must be taken under medical supervision. |
| Effective for a short period of time after unprotected sex (72-120 hrs). | Can be used up to 9 weeks into a pregnancy. |
| Self-administered. | Self-administered under the direction of a certified healthcare practitioner. |
| No follow-up visit is required. | Follow up visit is required. |
| Minimum side effects — can cause nausea and abdominal pain. | Relatively more side effects, including nausea, abdominal pain, cramping, bleeding. Rarely can cause incomplete abortion and infection. |
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision to use the morning-after pill or the abortion pill should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. If you have had unprotected sex or contraceptive failure and do not want to become pregnant, the morning-after pill can be an effective option when taken within 72–120 hours of intercourse. If you are pregnant and wish to terminate the pregnancy, the abortion pill may be an appropriate choice.
Remember that they have different purposes and mechanisms of action and should not be used interchangeably.
Abortion Clinic Cost in Singapore
Both the morning-after pill and the abortion pill can be effective options for managing your reproductive health. As with all health procedures, it is important that you carefully weigh the pros and cons of available options before making a decision. Additionally, if you are going in for a medical abortion, the abortion clinic cost in Singapore and the potential side effects and risks should also be taken into account. All these decisions should be made in consultation with a certified and experienced healthcare provider and based on individual circumstances and preferences.
Consult Seng’s OG Practice
Anyone suspecting an unwanted pregnancy is free to access both emergency contraception and medical abortions in Singapore at a Ministry of Health-authorised clinic. While the cost of services varies depending on the clinic and the type of procedure, resources are available to help patients navigate their options and make informed decisions.
If you have had unprotected sex and are worried about an unwanted pregnancy, speak to our experienced specialists at Seng’s OG Practice. We will ensure that you receive the best advice and support and have access to safe and affordable reproductive healthcare.