Tips for explaining 事后药 concerns in English during a doctor's visit in Singapore

How to Explain Emergency Contraception (事后药) Concerns in English During a Doctor's Visit in Singapore

Visiting a doctor in Singapore to discuss emergency contraception ("morning-after pill" or 事后药) can feel stressful, especially if you are worried about language barriers or sensitive topics. Here are practical tips and example phrases to help you communicate your concerns clearly and confidently in English with your healthcare provider.

1. How to Start the Conversation

Begin by stating your purpose simply and directly. For example:

• "I would like to talk about emergency contraception."
• "I need advice about the morning-after pill."
• "I had unprotected sex and I’m worried about pregnancy."

In Singapore, emergency contraception is only available by prescription, so you must consult the doctor in person. The doctor is used to handling such topics professionally and confidentially, so don’t hesitate to be honest about your situation.[AWARE Singapore]

2. Information the Doctor May Need

To help the doctor recommend the best option, be ready to answer questions such as:

• "When was your last period?"
• "When did the unprotected sex happen?"
• "Do you have any allergies or medical conditions?"
• "Are you taking any medications right now?"
• "Have you used emergency contraception before?"

Example response: "I had unprotected sex two days ago. My last period started about three weeks ago. I am not taking any regular medication and have no allergies."

3. Expressing Your Concerns and Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask about anything you’re unsure of. Some useful phrases:

• "What are the possible side effects of the morning-after pill?"
• "Is it safe for me to take emergency contraception?"
• "How effective is it if I take it now?"
• "Will it affect my period?"
• "Are there any long-term effects?"
• "Is there anything I should avoid after taking the pill?"

If you have specific worries, such as medical conditions or previous experiences, you can say:

• "I have a history of blood clots. Is it still safe for me to use this?"
• "I took the morning-after pill before and felt very sick. Is that normal?"

4. Understanding the Doctor’s Advice

The doctor may explain the types of emergency contraception available (for example, single or dual tablet, or IUD), how and when to take the medicine, and what to expect afterwards.[Health Advisory Clinic] If you are unsure about anything, you can say:

• "Could you explain that again, please?"
• "Can you write down the instructions for me?"
• "What should I do if I feel unwell after taking the pill?"

5. Privacy and Emotional Concerns

It’s normal to feel nervous or embarrassed, but remember: doctors in Singapore are trained to be non-judgmental and keep your information confidential. If you are worried about privacy, you can say:

• "I am concerned about privacy. Will this information be kept confidential?"

If you are experiencing emotional distress, especially after sexual assault, let the doctor know. For example:

• "I am feeling very anxious about this situation."
• "I need emotional support or counseling."

There are also support services in Singapore, such as AWARE Singapore, that can help with counseling and further information.

6. Practical Tips for Your Doctor’s Visit

• Bring your ID and any medical documents if you have them.
• Arrive as soon as possible after unprotected sex, as emergency contraception is most effective within 72 hours.
• Take notes or ask for written instructions if you are worried about forgetting details.
• After your visit, monitor your period and health. If your period is more than a week late, take a pregnancy test or return to the clinic.

Summary Table: Useful English Phrases

Being prepared with the right phrases and questions can help you feel more confident and ensure you get the care you need. For more information on emergency contraception in Singapore, you can visit AWARE Singapore or consult your nearest women’s health clinic.