FAQs About the Morning-After Pill in Japan

If you’ve had unprotected sex or experienced contraceptive failure, the morning-after pill (emergency contraception) can help prevent pregnancy. However, in Japan, access to the morning-after pill is more restricted than in some other countries, and many people have questions like, “Where can I get it?” or “How soon do I need to take it?”

In this article, we answer common questions about the morning-after pill in Japan, including its availability, effectiveness, and what to expect when visiting a clinic.

General Questions

Can I Get the Morning-After Pill Without a Prescription in Japan?

No. Unlike in some countries where it’s available over the counter, the morning-after pill requires a prescription from a doctor in Japan. You will need to visit a gynecology clinic or hospital to get it.

How Soon Do I Need to Take the Morning-After Pill?

The sooner you take it, the more effective it is:

Within 24 hours: Over 95% effective
24-48 hours: Around 85% effective
48-72 hours: Around 58% effective

If more than 72 hours (3 days) have passed, the pill may not work, and you should consult a doctor about other options.

How Much Does the Morning-After Pill Cost in Japan?

The price typically ranges from ¥7,000 to ¥15,000, depending on the clinic and the type of pill prescribed. Since it is not covered by health insurance, the full cost must be paid out of pocket.

Can I Buy the Morning-After Pill Online in Japan?

No, you cannot purchase it online or from pharmacies without a doctor’s consultation. Some online medical consultation services may be able to prescribe it, but availability is limited.

Do I Need a Parent’s Permission to Get the Morning-After Pill in Japan?

No, there are no legal age restrictions, and minors can obtain it without parental consent. However, some clinics may require a parent’s presence for younger patients, so it’s best to check with the clinic in advance.

Effectiveness & Safety

What Kind of Morning-After Pill is Available in Japan?

Levonorgestrel is the most common one in Japan. Ulipristal acetate is not officially approved in Japan. Some clinics import the pills individually from overseas. Given this situation, the availability of is ulipristal acetate limited in Japan.

Some clinics may offer the Yuzpe method, which uses a combination of estragen and progesteron (a commonly used pill in Japan is called Pranoval). A second dose is required after 12 hours. While the Yuzpe method is less effective and tends to cause more side effects than other oral methods, its wide availability and low cost can make it a viable option.

How Does the Morning-After Pill Work?

Levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone, prevents ovulation. If ovulation has already occurred, the pill may not be effective.

Will the Morning-After Pill Work If I’m Already Pregnant?

No. The morning-after pill prevents pregnancy but does not terminate an existing one. If you suspect you are already pregnant, consult a doctor for other options.

What Happens If I Vomit After Taking the Morning-After Pill?

If you vomit within 2 hours of taking the pill, you may need to take another dose. Contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Can I Take the Morning-After Pill Multiple Times?

Yes, but frequent use is not recommended because:

It is less effective than regular birth control pills.
It may cause irregular menstrual cycles.
It can be expensive if used repeatedly.

For long-term contraception, consider birth control pills, IUDs, or other reliable methods.

Side Effects & Menstrual Cycle

What Are the Side Effects of the Morning-After Pill?

Common side effects include:

Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or headaches
Fatigue
Breast tenderness
Irregular menstrual bleeding (early or late period)

Based on my professional experience as a gynecologist, the likelihood of these symptoms occurring with levonorgestrel is quite low, and even if they do, they are typically mild and resolve within a few days.

Will the Morning-After Pill Delay My Period?

Yes, your period may come a few days earlier or later than usual. If your period is more than a week late, take a pregnancy test.

Can the Morning-After Pill Cause Infertility?

No, there is no evidence that emergency contraception affects long-term fertility. However, if you frequently need emergency contraception, consider switching to a regular birth control method.

Availability & Accessibility

Can I Get the Morning-After Pill at a Pharmacy in Japan?

No. Unlike in some countries, Japanese pharmacies do not sell the morning-after pill without a prescription. You must visit a clinic or hospital.

What If I Can’t Find a Clinic That Prescribes It?

If you cannot find a clinic nearby, try:

Searching online for “婦人科 + アフターピル” (Gynecology + Morning-After Pill).
Calling multiple clinics to check availability.
Asking an online medical consultation service (if available).

Can Foreigners Get the Morning-After Pill in Japan?

Yes, foreign residents and visitors in Japan can obtain a prescription at clinics and hospitals. Some clinics, including ours, Ashiya Women’s Clinic, offer consultations in English and Chinese.

Need Emergency Contraception in Kansai?

At Ashiya Women’s Clinic, we provide:
✅ Same-day prescriptions of levonorgestrel for emergency contraception
✅ English & Chinese-speaking doctors
✅ Confidential & professional care

📍 Located a 3-minute walk from JR Ashiya Station

Ashiya Station is located between Osaka Station and Sannomiya Station (one of the major stations in Kobe City). All JR trains on this route make a stop there. If you are in Ashiya/Kobe/Nishinomiya/Osaka, reaching Ashiya Women’s Clinic should be easy.

Schedule your appointment with us today, or feel free to visit during our office hours. Emergency contraception is time-sensitive, and we will respond as promptly as possible.