It is not easy for someone to make up her mind to get an abortion. But if that is the best solution in the individual’s circumstances, Singapore’s Obstetrics and Gynaecology doctors are always ready to help.
WHO CAN UNDERGO ABORTION IN SINGAPORE?
It is legal for Singapore citizens of all ages to have an abortion. Foreigners who have been in Singapore for at least 4 months can also undergo the abortion procedure.
IS COUNSELLING MANDATORY?
Yes. Abortion counselling and watching a video on the topic are mandatory.
Both medical and surgical abortion can only take place at least 48 hours after the counselling. This 48-hour gap is there as the “thinking time”, giving women a chance to withdraw if there is a change of mind.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ABORTION?
There are two main types of abortion: medical abortion and surgical abortion.
- Medical abortion is the method of using medication to end a pregnancy. It is safe and effective for the termination of pregnancies under 8 weeks.
- Surgical abortion involves the use of a suction machine to remove the tissue from the uterus. This method is effective for the termination of pregnancies up to 14 weeks.
WHERE CAN ABORTION BE DONE?
Abortion pills can be taken at the clinic or at home.
Surgical abortion of pregnancy under 12 weeks can be done on the premises of the clinic.
Surgical abortion of pregnancy from 13 to 24 weeks must be done at a hospital.
HOW THE ABORTION COST CALCULATED?
Abortion costs can be broken down into:
- Initial consultation fee
- Blood test fee
- Ultrasound scan fee
- Medication fee
- Anaesthetic fee
- Procedure fee
- Ward fee
- Post review fee
WHAT ARE THE ABORTION COSTS IN SINGAPORE?
Abortion costs may vary based on the pregnancy stage and the woman’s general health. Typically, the more advanced the pregnancy, the higher the cost of the procedure.
The costs of an abortion in a public hospital range from $750 to $2000. Do note that a referral from a polyclinic is required to engage this service at a public hospital. The average waiting time for an appointment at a public hospital is one to two weeks.
Abortion costs at a private clinic range from $1000 to $4500. The advantage of getting an abortion service at a private clinic is that women can save on the waiting time. In many cases, this helps save money because the extended waiting time allows the pregnancy to advance in the stage.
Singaporeans can use Medisave ($900 – $1050) to cover the abortion cost at a private clinic.
WHAT ARE THE BEST PRIVATE ABORTION CLINICS IN SINGAPORE?
Listed below are the 5 best MOH-Approved clinics offering abortion services for pregnancies up to 24 weeks.