Birth control pills are one of the most popular contraceptives used by Singaporeans. It allows women to have sexual intercourse without worrying as much about getting pregnant, even if their partners do not use condoms.
Have you considered taking birth control pills to prevent pregnancies? If so, here are some things your Singapore gynaecologist would want you to know about them.
Things to Know Before Taking Birth Control Pills in Singapore
You Cannot Buy Birth Control Pills Over the Counter
Unlike in other countries like the USA, Singaporeans cannot buy birth control pills in pharmacies. You must get a prescription and buy them from a polyclinic or your gynaecologist here in Singapore.
Are you not keen on seeing a gynae in person? Another option would be to have an online consultation with your doctor to get the prescription and order the birth control pills.
Females Below 16 Are Prohibited from Buying
Do keep in mind that women below 16 years of age are not allowed to buy or use birth control pills. This is because the legal age for consensual sexual intercourse is 16 years old.
It is also illegal for Singapore gynaes to prescribe or sell birth control pills to minors under 16.
Birth Control Pills Are Not Only for Preventing Pregnancies
Your gynaecologist in Singapore can also prescribe birth control pills for other purposes besides contraception. Many sexually inactive Singaporean women also take these pills to control acne breakouts and regulate menstrual periods and their symptoms.
Birth control pills can also reduce your risk of PCOS and ovarian and uterine cancer.
Birth Control Pills Are Not 100% Effective
Birth control pills are actually only 99% effective! There will always be that 1% chance you will get pregnant.
But it is also important to take the pill daily according to the brand's instructions. The more times you forget the pill, the higher your chances of pregnancy. In fact, you are no longer safe from pregnancy if you miss three or more pills. You would have to consult your gynae on what to do next.
Birth Control Pills Do Not Prevent STIs
You should always keep in mind that birth control pills do not protect you against sexually transmitted infections. Be sure to get vaccinated for HPV and use condoms if you want to have sexual intercourse safely.
Who Should and Shouldn't Take Birth Control Pills?
Any sexually active Singaporean woman can take birth control pills if she has no plans of getting pregnant. The pills do not make you infertile, so you can stop taking them at any time if you want to start a family.
This contraceptive might not be suitable for you if you are under medication or have underlying conditions. Birth control pills contain hormones which could cause harmful side effects if they clash with your medicine or aggravate your illness.
A Singapore gynaecologist can help assess you to see if you are fit to take the pill.
Always Consult Your Singapore Gynae First
Birth control pills are generally safe to use. Of course, you should always speak first with your gynaecologist here in Singapore if you are interested in taking the pill. It is the legitimate way to procure pills, and the doctor can also help you try different brands to see which one works best for you.
Conclusion
Birth control pills are great for preventing unwanted pregnancies. But Singaporean women should also take the above factors into consideration before buying.
Make sure to seek out the best gynaecologist in Singapore who can cater to your health concerns so you can have a safe and effective experience with your birth control pills.
