- Emergency contraceptive pills containing levonorgestrel have been sold by Thai pharmacists without a prescription since 1997, according to a 2023 study.
- The WHO says emergency contraception works best taken as soon as possible, within five days; a copper IUD fitted within five days is the most effective option.
- IUDs and implants are fitted by doctors, usually in a hospital gynaecology clinic or a women's health clinic.
- Thai citizens can get many methods free through the national health scheme; foreign residents should check their own insurance or social security cover.
- Bring no more than 30 days' supply of prescribed contraception unless the Thai FDA confirms otherwise.
Contraceptive pills
Pharmacies are easy to find in Thai towns and cities, and hospitals run their own pharmacies too. Brands and doses differ from those in other countries, so take the packaging or a prescription that names the hormones and their strengths, and ask the pharmacist whether an equivalent is available. If the exact combination is not stocked, ask a doctor before switching to a different pill.
Starting a new pill, or restarting after a break, is a conversation to have with a doctor or pharmacist, who can review your health and decide which methods suit you. Tell them about any long-term conditions, whether you smoke or are breastfeeding, and every other medicine you take, including ones bought without a prescription. Keep a note of the brand and dose you are given in Thailand so a doctor at home can match it later.
The UK government notes that standards at independent pharmacies vary and that pharmacists may not always explain dosing or check interactions; it describes hospital pharmacies as a more reliable option. If you have a health condition, take other medicines or are starting a new method, see a doctor first.
Emergency contraception
A 2023 study of Thai pharmacists reports that levonorgestrel emergency pills have been sold by pharmacists without a prescription since 1997, and that levonorgestrel was the only emergency pill commercially available in Thailand at the time. It lists the registered regimens as a single 1.5 mg dose, or two 0.75 mg doses taken 12 hours apart. Most people get them by asking a pharmacist; hospitals and clinics also provide them.
The WHO says emergency pills should be taken as soon as possible, ideally within 120 hours (five days) of unprotected sex, and that taking them sooner is better. It describes side effects as usually mild, says the pills work by preventing or delaying ovulation, and states that emergency contraception cannot end an established pregnancy.
A copper IUD fitted within five days is, according to the WHO, the most effective form of emergency contraception. If you want this option, contact a hospital gynaecology department or women's health clinic quickly and explain the timing.
IUDs and implants
Coils and implants are fitted by doctors. Hospital obstetrics and gynaecology departments and women's health clinics are the usual places to arrange them. When you book, ask which types are stocked, whether the consultation, device and fitting are priced together, and what follow-up is included.
If you already have an IUD or implant, bring a record of the type and the date it was fitted. That helps a doctor in Thailand plan checks, removal or replacement.
Free contraception for Thai citizens
A guide published in April 2025 by RSA Thailand, drawing on the National Health Security Office, says Thai citizens can get contraception free at participating facilities whatever their health scheme. It lists up to 13 packs of pills a year, two packs of emergency pills a year, up to five injections a year, an implant once every three years, an IUD insertion once a year, condoms and sterilisation. Eligibility can be checked in the Pao Tang app or on the NHSO's 1330 hotline.
The guide addresses Thai citizens and does not say whether foreign residents are covered. If you work in Thailand and pay into social security, or have private insurance, ask what your scheme pays for.
Bringing your own supply
Hormonal contraceptives do not appear among the narcotic or psychotropic examples in the Thai FDA's traveller guidance, so they are likely to fall under the general rule for prescription medicines; confirm on the FDA's Check the Drug tool. The Royal Thai Embassy in London says travellers can bring up to 30 days of prescribed use, in original labelled containers, with a doctor's letter or prescription. For a longer supply, contact the Thai FDA's Bureau of Drug Control before travel, or plan to buy locally.
Arranging contraception in Thailand
- Take your current packaging or a prescription naming the hormones and doses.
- For emergency contraception, go to a pharmacy or clinic as soon as possible.
- If you want a copper IUD as emergency contraception, contact a clinic within five days.
- For an IUD or implant, ask the clinic for an all-in price and follow-up plan.
- Check what your insurance or social security covers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy the morning-after pill in Thailand without a prescription?
Yes. A 2023 study reports that levonorgestrel emergency pills have been sold by pharmacists without a prescription since 1997.
How long after sex does emergency contraception work?
The WHO says within 120 hours (five days), and the sooner the better. A copper IUD fitted within five days is the most effective option.
Is ulipristal (ellaOne) available in Thailand?
The 2023 study found levonorgestrel was the only emergency pill commercially available in Thailand. Ask a pharmacist or clinic about current availability.
Where can I get an IUD fitted?
At a hospital gynaecology department or women's health clinic. Ask about the types stocked and the total price before booking.
Is contraception free in Thailand?
For Thai citizens, many methods are free through the national health scheme. Foreign residents should check their own insurance or social security cover.
Sources
- World Health Organization — Emergency contraception fact sheet
- Journal of Pharmaceutical Policy and Practice (2023) — Emergency oral contraception survey of Thai pharmacists
- RSA Thailand — Free contraception under National Health Security Office rights (April 2025)
- Royal Thai Embassy, London — Bringing medications to Thailand
- GOV.UK — Healthcare and medical services in Thailand
