Become a Patron!Here are general and sexual health information specific to Singapore.
Sexual Health Information
SAFE(R) SEX
To reduce the risk of pregnancy:
- IUDs (intrauterine devices)
- Diaphragms
- Birth control pills
- Oral sex
- Anal sex
- Sterilisation
- Mutual masturbation
To reduce the risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs):
- Condoms
- Gloves
- Dental dams
Do You Have Consent?
Consent refers to the willing agreement of all parties to the activity under consideration
- There is no consent if the person doesn’t understand the nature of the act if under the influence of drinks or drugs.
- Consent must be given for each sexual activity, every time.
- Consent can be given or withdrawn at any stage, either verbally or non verbally.
RELATIONSHIP
Setting boundaries
Here’s a tool to maintaining effective boundaries: the CUNT principle.
7 Tips for Safe Dating
Dating should be fun! Here are 7 tips to keep it safe!
Single and Unwed Mothers in Singapore: Frequently Asked Questions
In this article, we address some common questions and queries that have been raised by unwed and/or single mothers in Singapore.
SEX TALK
A Lowdown on Anal Sex
So, you want to know the ins and outs of anal sex?
Sex Toys
We’ve gathered some of the most vital info on popular sex toys.
Are You Ready?
So it seems everyone around you has already “done it”. Are YOU ready?
SAFE(R)SEX
Got questions about birth control?
Birth control is not just about preventing pregnancy or practicing safer sex. It is about empowering yourself – regardless of gender. Take charge now!
The Morning After The Night Before
So… you didn’t take any precautions last night. Now what?
Sexual Health Screening
The bedding was hardly able to cover it and seemed ready to slide off any moment.
SEX & THE CITY
Men: Lies We Are Told
The difference between a boy and a man is simple: A man knows what he wants and doesn’t apologize for it.
Porn Myths
Think everything you’ve seen is the way to go? Think again.
Sex Laws in Singapore
Is porn legal? Is sexting a crime? What’s the legal age for sex?
Condoms 101
Correct Condom Usage
- Get one in the right size
- Check for expiry or damage
- Put on before any penile-vaginal penetration
- Put on with clean hands
- Unwrap it carefully
- Unroll a little to ensure it’s the right way around
- Leave space for semen
- Apply enough lube on the unrolled condom, but not too much before unrolling
- Remove carefully upon withdrawal by holding the rim at the base of the penis
Common Condom Mistakes
- Late application/premature removal
- Unrolling before putting it on
- Not leaving space at the top or not rolling down the whole day
- Failing to remove
- Exposure to sharp objects
- No/wrong lubrication
- Condoms in the wrong size
- Inside-out: putting it on the wrong way and then trying again with the same condom
- Wearing two condoms believing it will result in double protection
Emergency Contraception
Worried about falling pregnant after an unsafe sexual encounter? Emergency contraception, or the “”morning after pill”, can help you to prevent pregnancy. It contains a hormone called Levonorgestrel. In Singapore, this medicine is sold under the name “Postinor-2”.
How does it work? – Postinor 2 is a series of 2 tablets. The first is taken as soon as possible (up to 72 hours) after the sexual encounter. The second tablet is taken 12 hours later. Emergency contraception works by delaying ovulation.
How effective is it? – The earlier you take emergency contraception, the more effective it will be. If taken within first 24 hours, it is 95% effective in preventing pregnancy. If taken at 25 – 48 hours, it prevents 85% of pregnancy. After 48 hours, it prevents 58% of pregnancies. Hence, you’d want to visit the doctor as soon as possible if this happens to you!
What are the side effects? – The most common side effects of emergency contraception are abdominal discomfort, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. Some users also report other symptoms such as headache, giddiness diarrhoea, and breast tenderness. Abnormal bleeding such as spotting between periods can occur, and your period might be early, delayed or abnormally heavy.
What are the alternatives? – An intrauterine device (IUD) is an alternative option for emergency contraception. If inserted within 5-7 days of the sexual encounter, the copper IUD is >99% effective in preventing pregnancy. An additional benefit is that it provides continued contraception for up to 5 years after insertion. Another alternative for women who seek medical attention later than 72 hours, but within 5 days of sexual intercourse is a medication called Ella. Ella contains a progesterone-like compound, ulipristal, and is more effective than Postinor in preventing pregnancy.
Emergency contraception is not 100% effective. If your period is delayed by more than 3 weeks, get a pregnancy test done. And remember, emergency contraception is only useful in preventing pregnancy. It is not effective in protecting against STIs.
Sexual Health
Regardless of whether you are sexually active, this information has been made available for everyone in the interest of individual and community health, safety, and well being.
Be Prepared (BePrep) Clinic
The NUH HIV Programme also supports the NUH BePrep Clinic, a specialist clinic that provides comprehensive and holistic services in sexual health screening and counselling for men and women. The BePrep Clinic also offers counseling and testing for STI and HIV as well as risk reduction packages including Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). For more information, please click here.
DSC Clinic STI
Queries and Counselling
DSC (or Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections Control) Clinic is a specialist outpatient clinic for the diagnosis, treatment and control of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in Singapore. Our mission is to be the national and regional referral centre of excellence for the diagnosis and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections. We are committed to provide cost-effective and specialized care of STI/STDs in a setting of intensive medical research, quality education and patient safety.
Contact: 1800 252 1324
Office hours: 8.00am to 12.00pm and 1.00pm to 5.00pm (Mondays to Fridays, excluding public holidays)
Sexual Assault Care Centre (AWARE)
Women’s Action is a memory project that documents and celebrates the history of the women’s movement in an independent Singapore. Launched in the year of the country’s fiftieth anniversary, the website covers the Singapore woman’s history through ten themes – presenting the women’s movement as a multi-faceted journey that has affected Singaporean women in many aspects of our daily lives. The interweaving of certain events and milestones across the ten themes is also testament to the many ways in which women’s issues cannot be separated from the rest of society, and how we are always connected in our journey.
Contact: (65) 6779 0282
Mon-Fri: 10:00 am to midnight
DSC Clinic
DSC (or Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections Control) Clinic is a specialist outpatient clinic for the diagnosis, treatment and control of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in Singapore. Our mission is to be the national and regional referral centre of excellence for the diagnosis and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections. We are committed to provide cost-effective and specialized care of STI/STDs in a setting of intensive medical research, quality education and patient safety.
Contact: 1800 252 1324
Office hours: 8.00am to 12.00pm and 1.00pm to 5.00pm (Mondays to Fridays, excluding public holidays)
S.L.A.A Singapore
Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous. Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous or S.L.A.A. is a program of recovery from sex and/or love adiction. The program is based on the principles of the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, a model pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous. The only requirement for anyone who wishes to join S.L.A.A. is a desire to stop living a pattern of sex and love addiction.
Email Address: SLAASG.Recovery@gmail.com
The Greenhouse Community Services Ltd
The Greenhouse is an addiction recovery centre for marginalised and vulnerable communities, such as those who are sexual minorities, ethnic minority, HIV+ or formerly incarcerated. Our approach is data-driven, evidence-based and trauma-responsive. In addition to helping our clients recover, we advocate for competent and compassionate care in Singapore and empower their loved ones in supporting them.
Contact Number: 82231683
Email Address: info@thegreenhouse.sg
Babes Pregnancy Crisis Support
A non-profit agency that journeys with pregnant teenagers, providing emotional support, information and resources to empower them to make responsible decision on their pregnancy.
Babes takes a “mother-centric” approach and ensure she is aware of her choices and empowered to make responsible decisions for her pregnancy. We will respect and support her choice with a view to nurturing longer-term, on-going support from family, friends, volunteers and the wider community, and a normal life for her.
Contact Number: 6206 6641
Whatsapp text: 3135 1351
Email Address: hello@babes.org.sg
Health Services
NUH emergency
As a healthcare institution, we are constantly striving to improve patient outcomes and be the best place to give and receive care. The milestones that we have achieved, both clinical and non-clinical, are a reflection of our efforts.
Address: 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 119074
Contact: (65) 6772 5000
24/7 (walk-in)
Singapore General Hospital (SGH)
Singapore General Hospital (SGH) is Singapore’s flagship tertiary hospital with a history and tradition of medical excellence spanning two centuries
Contact: 6321 4311 (24 hr)
Address: Outram Road, 169608
Action for AIDS
6254 0212
info@afa.org.sg
9 Kelantan Lane #03-01, 208628
Women’s Health
NUH Women’s Clinic
Dedicated in meeting the healthcare needs of women, the Women’s Health is another clinic under the NUH Women’s Clinic cluster that is brought closer to the residents in the community. With a team of dedicated specialists and staff, patients residing in the west can enjoy the same high standards of care and treatment for all their obstetrics & gynaecological needs, right at their doorstep. The NUH Women’s Clinic offers a convenient, one-stop service for patients – from consultation, to investigations and to the collection of medication, all at a single location.
Address: 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 119074
Contact: (65) 6772 2255/2277
Open 24 hours
KK Women’s Hospital
At KK Women’s Hospital, much of our attention is dedicated to the growing medical needs of today’s women to provide the best care possible. In this regard, we look beyond the patient’s immediate medical needs by providing holistic and seamless integrated care. We have set up one-stop centres to provide comprehensive services under one roof. The services range from diagnosis to treatment, and even emotional and psychological support.
Address: 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 229899
Contact: (65) 6225 5554 – 24/7 (main line)
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.30pm; Saturday, 8.30am – 1.00pm; (Closed on Sunday & Public Holidays)
GLBT organisations in Singapore
Pelangi means rainbow in Malay, the rainbow being a symbol of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. PPC is a LGBT community space and resource centre located in Singapore since 2003.
Rainbow Parents SG is an informal social group of LGBTQ parents living in Singapore with our children. There has been little information available in Singapore, for queer people who wish to have children. We hope to remedy that a little by providing some information in the Singaporean context.
SGRainbow is a non-profit community social movement and organisation for GBQ men aged 18 to 35 years old in Asia. Based in Singapore, we aim to provide a platform for GBQ men to navigate themselves within the LGBTQ and the larger community through personal and social development programmes.
The G Spot: Yale-NUS Gender and Sexuality Alliance
We are a collection of students from Yale-NUS College who promote diversity and inclusivity. We seek to raise awareness on issues of gender, sexuality and feminism, including their intersections, as well as provide a safe space for support, education and activism.
The ‘T’ Project is committed towards empowering the transgender community in Singapore & as far as we can go.
The little story of YOH started when three queer youths noticed a gap in LGBTQ services in Singapore specifically catered for youths in late 2005. There were simply none to speak of.
The FREE COMMUNITY CHURCH is a congregation of diverse individuals and families gathering to worship and grow as a Christian community. We desire to develop a vibrant heart relationship with God and a thinking-mind relationship with the Bible. We do not believe in easy answers to life’s challenging questions but in the wisdom of a great and loving God, who surpasses our human understanding. We aim to nurture Christ-centred communities so that members can develop a faith relevant to our times.
The Inter-University LGBT Network (“Network”) is a network for organisations in Singapore universities to collaborate in fostering safer and more inclusive school communities for everyone regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression.
Member groups:
Gender Collective (Cinammon College, NUS)
tFreedom (Tembusu College, NUS)
G Spot (Yale-NUS)
The Sing! Men’s Chorus (formerly known as the Singapore Men’s Chorus), or SMC, was formed in 2005 to provide an avenue for those interested in male chorale and present another form of choral music for the public to enjoy.
Oogachaga Counselling and Support
Oogachaga is a community-based, non-profit, professional organisation working with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals, couples and families in Singapore since 1999.
The Helm is a community and a venture fund that rethinks how people invest in female entrepreneurs — a segment of the financial sector that received only 2.5% of all venture capital in 2016 despite consistently outperforming all-male teams.
Trans* it! (under The Purple Alliance)
Trans* it! aims to support trans* identified individuals in their lives, be it their social or physical transition, or just to provide a listening ear and increase trans* visibility in Singapore.
A bi-monthly makan meetup group for trans men in Singapore. Its founder, Sham, also runs a shelter for trans men. Rent is under $500 a month for a room that can accommodate two.
Online forum for transgender people in Singapore (mostly trans women)
SAFE Singapore aims to provide information, resources and support for family and friends of LGBTQ persons.
Facebook group for trans men in Singapore
Facebook group for trans men in Singapore, mostly youths
Transbefrienders is a peer support service for trans youths seeking assistance, friendship or mentorship. We match youths with volunteers who have prior experience with the transitioning process in Singapore. Existing support systems are limited in how much they can help, so having another person as a source of support through one’s transition can help to minimize the usual uncertainty and loneliness of the process.
Gayhealth is a unique entity within AfA that built itself as a community based organization, that wants to help improve the sexual health and services to Gay/Bi/MSM community through advocacy and empowerment.
Powered by Oogachaga, Precious SG is an information portal for mature GBQ (gay, bisexual, and queer) men, MSM (men who have sex with men), and transgender women living with HIV in Singapore. Designed to be the first stop in your journey, we provide a safe space to learn, answer your questions, and direct you to the resources you need when you are ready to move forward.
Action for AIDS (AFA) STI Queries and Counselling
AFA is a non-governmental organisation dedicated to fighting AIDS/HIV infection in Singapore. It draws upon a network of healthcare professionals, advocates, educators and volunteers, to implement educational, testing, treatment and welfare programmes.
Contact: 6254 0212
Office hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (Mondays to Fridays, excluding Holidays)
Legal Information
Community Justice Centre
6557 4100
help@cjc.org.sg
1 Havelock Square, Level 1 State Courts Complex, Singapore 059724
Legal Aid Bureau
1800-225 5529
45 Maxwell Road
#07-11 The URA Centre (East Wing) Singapore 069118
Has to meet same criteria as other applicants (Sing/PR, assets/income no > $10K/yr.
Association of Women for Action and Research
6779 7137
aware@aware.org.sg
Block 5 Dover Crescent #01-22 Singapore 130005
The following contact details were last updated in 2015 and may have changed:
Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO)
6837 0611
scwo@scwo.org.sg
96 Waterloo Street Singapore 187967
Site contains a non-comprehensive list of women’s organisations in Singapore.
PAVE
6555 0390
admin@pave.org.sg
Blk 211 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3 #01-1446 Singapore 560211
Community Justice Centre
6557 4100
help@cjc.org.sg
1 Havelock Square, Level 1 State Courts Complex, Singapore 059724
Legal Aid Bureau
1800-225 5529
45 Maxwell Road
#07-11 The URA Centre (East Wing) Singapore 069118
Has to meet same criteria as other applicants (Sing/PR, assets/income no > $10K/yr.
Medical Help
KK Hospital
6-2255 554 (24 hr)
100 Bukit Timah Road, 229899
National University Hospital (NUH)
6772 5000 (24 hr)
5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, 119074
Singapore General Hospital (SGH)
6321 4311 (24 hr)
Outram Road, 169608
Action for AIDS
6254 0212
info@afa.org.sg
9 Kelantan Lane #03-01, 208628
Counselling and Mental Health Support
Crisis Hotline: Samaritans of Singapore – 1800 221 4444
IMH 24-hour Crisis Hotline – 6389 2222
NUH, Women’s Emotional Health Services – 6772 2037
KKH, Women’s Mental Wellness Service – 6294 4050
Care Corner Counselling Centre
6353 1180
cccc@carecorner.org.sg
Blk 62B Lorong 4 Toa Payoh #02-143, Singapore 312062
Counselling and Care Centre
6536 6366
www.counsel.org.sg
536 Upper Cross Street #05-241 Hong Lim Complex, Singapore 050536
Care Corner Counselling Centre
6353 1180
cccc@carecorner.org.sg
Blk 62B Lorong 4 Toa Payoh #02-143, Singapore 312062
Samaritans of Singapore
1800-221-4444 (24 hrs)
pat@sos.org.sg
Provides crisis counselling for those who are suicidal, in critical emotional distress and family who are affected by suicide.
CHAT – Community Health Assessment Team
6493-6500 / 6501
CHAT@mentalhealth.sg
Opening Hrs: 12 noon-9pm (Tues- Sat) excluding public holidays
*SCAPE #05-05, 2 Orchard Link, Singapore 237978
Silver Ribbon (Singapore)
6386 1928 (9am-5pm Mon-Fri except public holidays)
info@silverribbonsingapore.com
Blk 616 Hougang Ave 8, #01-386, Singapore 530616
NUH Crisis Counselling for sexual assault
(65) 6772 5167
social_work_assistants@nuhs.edu.sg
Department of Medical Social Work NUH
5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, 1 Main Building, Level 1, Singapore 119074
No direct referrals; must be a patient of NUH.
Seek Help If You Are Victim of Sexual Abuse
Aware Sexual Assault Care Centre
Tel: 6779 0282
Email: saccharide@aware.org.sg
Big Love Child Protection Specialist Centre
Tel: 6445 0440
Email: contact@biglove.org.sg
Heart @ Fei Yue Child Protection Specialist Centre
Tel: 6819 9170
Email: heartadmin@fycs.org
Tel: 1800 7777 0000
Email: msf_cpsintake@msf.gov.sg
NUH Crisis Counselling For Sexual Assault
Tel: 6772 5167
Email: social_work_assistant@nuhs.edu.sg
Tel: 1800 221 4444
Email: pat@sos.org.sg
Safe Space Child Protection Specialist Centre By Pave
Tel: 6266 0171
Email: intakecpsc@pave.org.sg
Tinkle Friend Helpline (For Children)
Tel: 1800 274 2788
Email: tinklefriend@childrensociety.org.sg
Tel: 6449 9088
Email: transsafe@trans.org.sg
In collaboration with M³ and supported by the Lawyers@M³ network, we are a group of Singapore lawyers standing up against all forms of harassment or violence against women, whether in the real world or online. For those who have been sexually harassed, defamed or denigrated online, whose privacy have been violated or trespassed, we are here to help you.
Wisma Geylang Serai
1 Engku Aman Road, Level 2
Singapore 490223
One-Stop Abuse Forensic Examination (OneSafe) Centre
A scheme that makes it easier for victims to report sexual crimes will be expanded to better ensure their privacy and comfort.
From May 1, the One-Stop Abuse Forensic Examination (OneSafe) Centre, which allows victims to be examined medically and lodge a police report at the same time, will have doctors from three hospitals on standby to tend to rape victims.
In the pilot programme, only doctors from Singapore General Hospital were available. Doctors from National University Hospital and KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) will be added to the roster.
Top 5 Pressing Questions on How to Get Emergency Contraception (the Morning After” Pill) in Singapore
1. How Do I See a Doctor in Singapore?
Most private clinics offer a walk-in system, but not every clinic may carry the morning after pill, or be staffed by a team familiar with women’s health. While obtaining the morning after pill on time is crucial, it is also as important to speak to a doctor who will be able to address and allay your concerns in judgement-free safe space.
Dr Tan & Partners clinics are conveniently located around Singapore and we attend to diverse mix of locals, travelling tourists and expatriates on daily basis.
The process of obtaining the emergency pill is quick and convenient: simply walk into any of our clinics, register, consult our doctor who will advise you appropriately, and you will be able to collect your medication immediately. No additional trip to an external pharmacy is required.
Payment is usually made by cash in Singapore dollars, (other modes of payment like WeChat Pay etc) or credit cards (Visa/Master/AMEX).
2. What Should I Be Worried about When Taking the Morning After Pill?
Common side effects include nausea, mild abdominal cramps, spotting (bleeding when not on your period) and changes in the next menses date (either slightly earlier or later).
The morning after pill can be taken up to 3 to 5 days after sexual intercourse (depending on the type of pill) but the earlier it is taken, the more effective it is. It does not protect against future occurrences of unprotected intercourse and should not be used as regular form of contraception. While it is extremely effective, it is not completely foolproof and if you find that your period is significantly delayed, you should do a blood or urine test to check for pregnancy.
3. Which are the Available Morning After Pills in Singapore and How Do I Take Them?
| Postinor | Ella | |
| Timing | Effective up to 72 hours from time of intercourse | Effective up to 5 days after the time of intercourse |
| Dosage | 2 tablets taken 12 hours apart | 1 tablet taken immediately |
4. What Should I Do If I am Already on the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill but Missed my Dose?
You should speak to your doctor if you are taking the combined oral contraceptive pill (e.g. Diane-35, Yasmin, YAZ, Microgynon etc) but have missed a dose or some doses. If there is a need for you to take emergency contraception, you may have to hold off restarting your regular pill for up to 5 days to prevent interactions between the different medications. Your doctor will advise you accordingly.
Alternative barrier contraception (condoms) should be used during this period and for 7 days after restarting your combined pill.
5. What Other Options Do I Have for Long-term Contraception? How Do I Prevent This From Happening Again?
There are many options available, from the mini pill to the combined pill, to an IUD (intra-uterine device) and even a hormonal implant (Implanon)
We provide a listening ear to better understand your individual needs and will help advise you on the most suitable form of regular contraception for you.
Lastly, let us take care of your health needs so that you can focus on enjoying yourself as you travel. Stay Safe.
Source: How to Get Emergency Contraception ‘Morning After Pills? in Singapore. (2019, June 19). Retrieved from https://www.dtapclinic.com/articles/how-to-get-emergency-contraception-morning-after-pills-in-singapore/
So, how long after exposure can you be tested for some of the most common STIs?
Chlamydia: 7 to 10 days
Gonorrhoea: 7 days
Hepatitis B: 45 days to 6 months
Herpes: 2 to 90 days
HPV: 14 days to years after exposure
HIV: 2 weeks (for PCR test) to 3 months (for Elisa test)
Syphilis: 10 to 90 days
Tests can include urine samples, blood tests, physical exams and cultures.
Getting tested is important, considering one in two sexually active people will get an STI by the age of 25 and most won’t know it. How could someone not know? Well, many STIs show no signs or symptoms, which is why getting tested regularly (and after risky behaviours) is a smart idea. If left untreated, STIs can cause significant long-term health problems.
Source: Sex Q&A: I Had Unprotected Sex. How Long Do I Have to Wait before I Get Tested? (2017, January 12). Retrieved from https://www.cosmopolitan.co.za/love/sex-relationships/sex-qa-i-had-unprotected-sex-how-long-do-i-have-to-wait-before-i-get-tested/
Compiled by Dr. Martha Tara Lee
Surrounded by friends who were sexually inhibited and struck by dire lack of positive conversations around sex and sexuality in Singapore, Dr. Martha Tara Lee set out to make a positive difference in embarking on her doctorate in human sexuality before launching Eros Coaching in 2009. Today, she remains dedicated to working with individuals and couples who wish to lead self-actualised and pleasure-filled lives.
She also holds certificates in counselling, coaching and sex therapy, and her fourth degree – a Masters in Counselling in May 2018. In practice for more than nine years, she is the only certified sexuality educator and certified sexuality educator supervisor by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) in Singapore.
Often cited in the local media, Dr. Lee is the appointed sex expert for Men’s Health Singapore, and Men’s Health Malaysia. She was recognised as one of ‘Top 50 Inspiring Women Under 40′ by Her World in July 2010, and one of ‘Top 100 Inspiring Women’ by CozyCot in March 2011. She is the host of weekly radio show Eros Evolution on the OMTimes Radio Network. She has published three books: Love, Sex and Everything In-Between, Orgasmic Yoga and From Princess to Queen.
Martha works with individuals and couples in private coaching sessions, and conducts her own workshops. She takes prides in making sure all her workshops are also fun, educational, and sex-positive. This comes easily to her because even though she is extremely dedicated and serious about her work, she fundamentally believes that sex is meant to be fun, wonderful, amazing and sacred. As such, this serious light-heartedness has shone through again and again. For her full profile, click here. Email her here.
