Are you wondering where to get contraceptive pills in Japan? Don’t worry! Here are 8 important things that you should know about birth control and other ways to avoid pregnancy. Read further for a complete guide to birth control pills.
If you’ve been living in Japan for a long time, I’m sure you’ve heard the term “piru” (ピル). Piru is a common term used to refer to contraceptive pills in Japan.
This guide untangles the complexities of getting contraceptive pills in Japan, whether you're a local resident or just visiting.
From finding the right clinic to understanding prescription processes, we'll empower you to make informed choices about your reproductive health in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Dive in and rediscover the freedom of taking control of your future, one cycle at a time.
How to get Contraceptive Pills in Japan?
Japan requires a doctor's prescription for contraceptive pills. Visit a clinic or OB/GYN, or try telemedicine services like YOLO PILL ONLINE. Expect costs around 3,000 yen/month, as insurance doesn't cover it. Consider online pharmacies or importing, but legality can be tricky. Prioritize your health – consult a doctor for safe and personalized advice!
- Related: Going to the gynaecologist in Japan
- Related: Abortion in Japan
Where To Get Contraceptive Pills In Japan?
Traditional Methods of Getting Contraceptive Pills in Japan
Clinics and hospitals stand as conventional options for obtaining contraceptive pills. Visiting an OB/GYN or a general clinic involves a consultation, potentially including medical assessments like blood tests or PAP smears. While costs may vary, it's essential to factor in the average expenses and inquire about insurance coverage.
You Can Get Contraceptive Pills From Online Pharmacies in Japan
For those seeking convenience, online pharmacies are emerging as a viable option. Discuss reliable services offering online consultations with licensed doctors who can prescribe contraceptive pills remotely. Highlight potential limitations, emphasizing the importance of choosing reputable platforms.
Alternative Methods of Getting Birth Control Pills in Japan
Telemedicine services are gaining popularity, providing online consultations with healthcare professionals. Explore the procedure, advantages, and potential pitfalls, particularly for foreign residents. Additionally, touch upon the option of importing pills from overseas, acknowledging legal restrictions and safety concerns.
Getting a Birth Control Prescription in Japan
Eligibility and Medical Assessments
Understanding eligibility criteria is crucial. Explain age requirements and the possibility of undergoing medical assessments before receiving a prescription. This could include blood tests or PAP smears to ensure the suitability of the chosen contraceptive method.
Refilling Prescriptions
Clarify the process of obtaining prescription refills. Whether it involves regular clinic visits, online systems, or utilizing telemedicine services, users need to understand how they can consistently access their contraceptive pills.
What Is the Cost of Birth Control Pills in Japan?
Discuss the average cost of contraceptive pills and associated consultations. Emphasize the lack of insurance coverage, making it essential for individuals to budget accordingly. This information allows potential users to plan for the financial aspect of birth control in Japan.
Types of Contraceptive Pills Available in Japan
After Learning about how to get a contraceptive pill in Japan, let’s move on to the types of pills available.
There are two types of Japanese birth control pills you can get on a prescription - Monophasic pills and Multiphasic pills
- Monophasic pills are one type that is consumed as a constant dose through the cycle. It runs on a 21-day cycle and the most common ones are Marvelon and Ortho M-21.
- Multiphasic pills are consumed in varying amounts during pill schedules. They can run both on a 21-day as well as 28-day cycle. Triquilar, Ange, New Phase, Ortho 777, as well as Marvelon are the most popular ones.
How to take the Contraceptive Pills?
Two types of pills are of 21-day and 28-day packages.
If you’re opting for a 28-day pill course then you’ll have to take a pill for 21 days which is known as an “active” pill that contains hormones.
The last 7 pills do not contain any hormone and are regarded as “reminder” pills that should be taken after the completion of the active pills.
And If you’re taking the 21-day course then you will have to take one pill every day for 3 weeks and not take any pills for the following week.
New pack of pills should be started after not taking the pill for a week.
I was advised to take the 28-day course. And, I must say, apart from some mood swings, I didn’t face any drastic side effects.
But different women have different experiences with birth control pills. While it was pretty smooth sailing for me, it might not be for others. But you won’t know until you try.
Emergency Contraception in Japan: The Morning After Pill in Japan
So how to get a contraceptive pill in Japan if you want an emergency contraception.
Well, this can be a little tricky.
The morning after pill can only be provided to you if you have a doctor’s prescription. Consider calling and taking an appointment before getting it. All you gotta say is “mo-ningu afutaa piru” to ask for a morning after pill in Japanese.
The Citizen’s Project for Pharmacy Access to Emergency Contraception movement has been fighting to improve the access to emergency morning-after pill in Japan. Hopefully, women in Japan eventually can access morning after pill without a prescription.
Other Birth Control Options in Japan
If you don’t prefer being on the birth control pills, here are some other birth control options you could try:
Condoms: This is the most common birth control method worldwide. Condoms are easily available in any drugstore, supermarket or convenience stores.
Spermicides: Spermicides are a type of contraceptives that kill the sperm or stop it from moving.
IUD: gynaecologists insert/remove the IUDs. They are quite expensive, around 50,000 yens. obgyn/gyns usually prefer IUDs on women who have already given birth as it is difficult to place IUD on women without childbirth experience.
Birth Control Pills in Japan: FAQs
Is the pill legal in Japan?
Yes the normal low dose contraceptive pills as well as the morning after pill are legal in Japan with the prescription of your doctor.
Is birth control free in Japan?
Birth control is not free in Japan. It costs around 2,000-3,000 yens to get a contraceptive pill in Japan. If you didn’t use a condom then it’s best to opt for a morning after pill as soon as possible. Check with your doctor before getting any birth control contraceptive.
Can I get birth control without an examination?
Yes, you don’t need an exam or Pap test before getting a contraceptive pill. All you need is a prescription from your doctor. Your doctor can also suggest some basic medical checkups before suggesting you a contraceptive pill. Tests like checking blood pressure, asking about blood clotting etc is common.
Contraceptive is a Safe Solution
If you didn’t plan a pregnancy and you’re stuck with doubts about it after an intercourse, the best option is to go to your gynaecologist and ask them for contraceptives.
Don’t worry, just trust your doctor and what he says, follow his guidelines and instructions. Hope you’re aware of how to get a contraceptive pill in Japan now!
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