From the convenience of IUDs and implants to the contraceptive pill, there’s a birth control solution to match every lifestyle. And yes, the morning after pill is available as a “plan B” for those little mishaps.
The freedom to make informed choices when it comes to birth control is definitely something to be embraced. Contraception should be something you’re discussing with your gynaecologist during your annual health checks, especially since technology is advancing all the time. If you’ve been relying on the same old methods for a while now, or had a break from birth control while conceiving and having kids, it might be time to review your meds. Ask your doctor to talk you through your birth control options, from the variety of contraceptive pills on the market, to injections, implants in your arm, hormonal rings and long-lasting IUDs to find the option that’s best for you.
Editor’s Note: This article is a general guide only. Please consult your doctor for professional medical advice for your situation.
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Where To Get Contraceptive Pills
Getting your hands on contraceptive pills in Hong Kong is surprisingly easy. It certainly came as a shock to this Sassy Mama to see boxes of birth control on the shelf at the local pharmacies after years of doctor’s visits overseas. While you don’t NEED a prescription, since contraceptive pills affect your hormones, we highly recommend seeking medical advice before starting a new birth control pill, especially when changing pills. It’s also important to review this advice with a professional annually.
Popular contraceptive pill brands that are readily available include Yasmin, YAZ, Marvelon, Mercilon, Microgynon 30, Nordette and Harmonet. Pick them up at your local dispensary, Mannings or Watsons, and you can even order online from HKTV Mall.
For affordable expert medical advice on the contraceptive pill, pay a visit to the Birth Control Clinic of The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong. There’s no need to make an appointment, simply walk into one of its five clinics for a consultation with the nurse or a referral to discuss your options with the doctor.
It’s no secret that Hong Kong has excellent public healthcare. Family planning appointments are available at your local MCHC to discuss contraceptive pills and other birth control options. If you’ve been through the public hospital system during pregnancy you’ll be familiar with the process and the clinics. It might be a lengthy wait, but it will be a cost effective, thorough and efficient consult.
Read More: Maternity Insurance In Hong Kong – Health Insurance For Pregnancy And Childbirth
Other Types Of Birth Control In Hong Kong — IUD, Implants And Injections
Of course the choice is yours when it comes to birth control — contraceptive pills certainly aren’t the only option. Both private doctors, The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong and government run MCHC clinics can talk you through and prescribe alternatives. Some of the options available include:
- IUD/ IUCD — The Intrauterine Contraceptive Device is a long-lasting medical device that is inserted into the uterus. There are hormonal and non-hormonal options that work in different ways to prevent sperm surviving.
- Nexplanon — A small rod is placed in the arm to steadily release hormones that prevent the release of eggs each month.
- Nuvaring — A soft plastic ring that is replaced monthly to prevent the release of eggs.
- Injectable contraceptives — Like contraceptive pills, these provide synthetic hormones to prevent ovulation. You’ll need to consult your doctor about the frequency of injections.
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Plan-B — Where To Get The Morning After Pill In Hong Kong
While this isn’t a form of birth control that you want to rely on or take regularly, emergency contraception, or the morning after pill, is available in Hong Kong with a prescription. The morning after pill must be taken within 72 to 120 hours (depending on the type of pill) of sexual intercourse and is available through both the public and private healthcare systems.
- Private Doctors — Make an appointment with your doctor who will discuss your options and provide a prescription. Prices will vary depending on the clinic.
- Family Planning Association Of Hong Kong — Offers progesterone only and Ulipristal Acetate morning after pills. Simply walk into one of its clinics (Monday to Saturday), there’s no need to make an appointment. Full costs can be viewed here, but expect to pay $30 to $60 to see the nurse, $150 to $200 for a doctor’s consult and $60 to $70 for the emergency contraceptive pill.
- Public Hospitals — You can also visit the A&E Department at a Hong Kong public hospital. While this is a very affordable option (for HKID card holders) the wait times can be significant.
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