Termination of Pregnancy in Singapore: Here’s What You Need to Know

There are many pivotal moments in life, and pregnancy is certainly one of them. Although pregnancy is often welcomed as a joyful time, various circumstances can mean that continuing to term may not be the right choice for you. In such cases, your doctor may discuss termination of pregnancy (TOP), commonly known as abortion.

However, due to the stigma surrounding this procedure, it can be difficult for women to seek support. So, it's important to note that TOP is a legal and safe medical procedure in Singapore, performed under strict conditions outlined in the Termination of Pregnancy Act. Understanding the legal, medical and emotional aspects of the process can help you make informed decisions and avoid unsafe abortion practices.

Legal framework for medical termination of pregnancy in Singapore

In Singapore, abortion is legally permitted under the specific conditions set out in the Termination of Pregnancy Act. The key points are as follows:

• Eligibility:

  • Termination of pregnancy is accessible to Singapore citizens, wives of Singaporean citizens, permanent residents, holders of a work pass or dependant's pass, or those who have lived in Singapore for a minimum of 4 months.

• Consent:

  • If you are pregnant and under 16 years old, you need to get counselling and permission from a parent or guardian before having an abortion.

• Pregnancy limits:

  • A TOP procedure is permitted up to 24 weeks into the pregnancy. This procedure is only permitted beyond this period if the pregnancy poses a risk to the mother's life or if the foetus has severe abnormalities.

• Mandatory counselling:

  • If you decide to terminate your pregnancy, you must undergo counselling to ensure you are fully informed about the procedure and its implications.

  • Additionally, there is a 48-hour waiting period after counselling before a procedure can be performed.

• Privacy:

  • The law protects the privacy of women undergoing abortions by keeping all related information confidential.

Medical procedures for termination of pregnancy

There are two main methods for performing a termination of pregnancy, medically and surgically. Prior to the procedure, your specialist will decide which method is appropriate for your stage of pregnancy and reproductive health.

Medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP)

This procedure involves using medication to terminate the pregnancy and is typically performed up to 9 weeks of pregnancy. The process uses two medications (or abortion pills) called mifepristone and misoprostol to artificially induce a miscarriage.

• Mifepristone:

  • This medicine works by blocking a progesterone hormone, which is essential for maintaining pregnancy. 

  • Mifepristone alone can cause miscarriage in 1% of patients. If you vomit within an hour of taking this medicine, an extra dose will be given.

• Misoprostol:

  • Misoprostol, taken 24 to 48 hours after mifepristone, contracts the uterus and relaxes the cervix, allowing the pregnancy tissue to pass.

In addition to these two medications, you will be given other medication to ensure your safety. These include:

• Antibiotics:

  • These medications help reduce your risk of infection after MTOP, so it is important for you to take the full prescription.

• Painkillers:

  • These medications relieve abdominal cramps and can usually be taken 30 minutes before misoprostol, as needed.

• Anti-D:

  • If you have a Rhesus negative blood group, you may be given an anti-D prescription.

  • This injection is usually given within 72 hours of passing the pregnancy tissue to prevent the body from forming antibodies that could affect the foetus in your future pregnancies.

• Feticide:

  • This medication is performed in advanced pregnancies is more than 22 weeks of pregnancy except for fatal foetal abnormalities, before the commencement of MTOP to ensure no risk of live birth.

• Lactation suppression (oral cabergoline 1 mg tablet, one dose):

  • It should be given to women carrying pregnancies after the 20th week of gestation and discussed by the 16th week.

Surgical termination of pregnancy

Surgical TOP involves a minor surgical procedure and has a high success rate. This procedure may be preferred if a medical abortion could cause an adverse reaction or harm to you (contraindication). These procedures are carried out in a clinical setting by trained medical professionals and include:

• Vacuum aspiration: 

  • This procedure is used up to 12-14 weeks of pregnancy. It involves gently suctioning out the pregnancy tissue from the uterus, typically under local anaesthesia.

  • On average, the entire surgical procedure will take around 2 to 3 hours, and the majority of patients experience a quick and painless recovery.

• Dilation and evacuation (D&E): 

  • This procedure is usually performed for pregnancies over 14 weeks. It involves dilating and evacuating the cervix and removing pregnancy tissues using a combination of gentle suction and specialised medical instruments, usually under general anaesthesia.

  • For pregnancies between 12 and 18 weeks, the operation is typically a day procedure. For pregnancies between 18 and 24 weeks, a hospital stay of approximately one to two days may be necessary.

  • Due to the legal limit of an abortion being 24 weeks and the added complexity of D&E, the preferred option is vacuum aspiration, as it is more straightforward and has faster recovery.

Regardless of the type of surgical abortion performed, you will usually have follow-up appointments with your specialist after the procedure to ensure it was successful, monitor your recovery, and provide advice on future family planning and contraception.

If any complications occur, further treatment, such as a blood transfusion, laparoscopy, laparotomy, or hysterectomy, may be required. Your doctor should also provide you with information on follow-up plans, contraception, sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening, cervical cancer screening, and emotional and social support.

If you are feeling uncertain about the decision to end your pregnancy or struggling to cope, don't hesitate to consult an obstetrician or gynaecologist (O&G). Our O&G specialists at Thomson Women's Clinic understand the difficulties you are facing and are here to provide support during these challenging times.

Reasons for termination of pregnancy

The choice to have an abortion is a deeply personal decision that can be made for many reasons, including:

• Personal choice:

  • You may choose to terminate a pregnancy for personal, social, or financial reasons.

• Health risks:

  • In situations such as an ectopic pregnancy, where continuing the pregnancy poses a high risk to the mother's physical or mental health, or when there are serious maternal medical conditions that could be worsened by pregnancy.

• Foetal abnormalities:

  • If the foetus has any serious abnormalities or conditions that may have an adverse effect on its survival after birth.

• Unwanted pregnancy:

  • If the pregnancy is unwanted and the result of an undesirable situation, such as sexual assault, TOP may be the appropriate treatment.

• Other circumstances:

  • Other personal or familial circumstances that make carrying the pregnancy to term untenable.

Risks of termination of pregnancy

Although pregnancy termination is generally safe, it does carry certain risks, including:

• Infection:

  • There is a small risk of infection following the procedure, which can be managed with antibiotics. So, it's important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed and avoid sexual intercourse for 1-2 weeks to reduce infection risk.

• Heavy bleeding:

  • Some women may experience heavy bleeding, particularly with surgical procedures.

  • Bleeding can last between 8 and 10 days and range from light to heavy and is usually heavier than a normal period. Once the pregnancy has ended, the bleeding will usually subside.

• Incomplete TOP procedure:

  • In some cases, the termination of pregnancy may not completely remove all pregnancy tissue, requiring a follow-up procedure.

• Injury to the womb or other organs:

  • With surgical procedures, there is a small risk of injury to the womb, cervix, or other organs.

Emotional and psychological considerations

Undergoing a pregnancy termination can be an emotionally challenging experience. It's understandable if you feel sadness, guilt, or even mixed emotions after the procedure.

At Thomson Women's Clinic, our O&G specialists understand your concerns and provide compassionate, non-judgemental support throughout your journey. Our specialist can help to answer all your questions and ensure you feel completely supported before, during, and after your procedure.

What to expect during your care:

• Private and discreet visits

• Recommendations from a TOP specialist

• Clear explanations and space to discuss your questions

• Thorough counselling support to ensure you're fully informed

Terminations of pregnancy cost

The cost of pregnancy termination in Singapore varies depending on whether you choose a medical or surgical method and where the procedure is performed (public or private). However, a medical termination generally costs between SGD 2,600 and SGD 4,200, while a surgical termination could cost up to SGD 10,800.

Fortunately, there are several schemes in Singapore that can help offset the total cost. These include MediSave, MediShield Life, and Integrated Shield Plans. Each scheme offers different levels of coverage depending on your eligibility and insurance arrangements.

This price was last updated in June 2025. Therefore, termination of pregnancy costs may have changed since then. For more information, visit our termination of pregnancy cost guide or contact our medical concierge.

FAQ

Is termination of pregnancy safe?

Yes, when performed by trained medical professionals in a regulated medical setting, abortion is a safe procedure. Although complications are rare, it is important to follow medical advice and attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper recovery.

What are the costs associated with termination of pregnancy?

The cost of an abortion varies depending on the method used and the healthcare provider, typically ranging from several hundred to a few thousand Singapore dollars. Financial assistance may be available for those in need.

Can I get an abortion without my parents knowing?

If you are under 16, parental consent and counselling are required. If you are 16 or older, you can decide independently. All information will be kept confidential.

Will having an abortion affect my fertility in the future?

Most women do not experience long-term fertility issues following a safe, legal abortion. However, it is crucial to follow post-procedure care instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure optimal recovery.

What support is available after an abortion?

Support services, including counselling and support groups, are available for individuals who require emotional or psychological assistance following an abortion.

How long can I return to normal activities after an abortion?

Recovery times may vary, but many women can return to normal activities within a few days. It is crucial to follow your doctor's advice and avoid strenuous activities until you are fully healed.

Is it necessary to have a follow-up appointment after an abortion?

Yes, a follow-up appointment is important to ensure that the abortion is complete and to check for any complications.

Are there any risks associated with abortion?

Like any medical procedure, abortion carries some risks, including infection, heavy bleeding, and injury to the uterus or other organs. However, when a qualified healthcare professional performs the procedure, these risks are minimal.

What are the alternatives to abortion?

Alternatives to abortion include carrying the pregnancy to term and either parenting or placing the child for adoption. Counselling can help explore all options and support decision-making.

How can I prevent an unplanned pregnancy in the future?

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, schedule an appointment at Thomson Women’s Clinic.