Birth control pills, often simply referred to as “the pill,” have revolutionised family planning and women’s reproductive health. These small but mighty medications provide a convenient and highly effective way to prevent pregnancy when taken correctly. Whether you’re considering birth control for the first time or thinking about switching to a different brand, understanding the range of options is essential.
These pills offer pregnancy prevention and provide additional benefits such as regulating menstrual cycles, reducing the risk of certain cancers, and alleviating symptoms of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). With various birth control pill brands available, each pill has slightly different formulations and options, so it can be overwhelming to narrow your choices. Here are the 6 best birth control pills in Malaysia.
When Should You Take Birth Control Pills?
According to WebMD, it is recommended to take the pills consistently at the same daily time for optimal effectiveness. While you can choose any time of day, taking them either before breakfast or at bedtime can be helpful for better adherence. Extended-cycle pills follow a similar pattern, with the first pill taken on the first Sunday following the onset of your period.
Is It Possible to Purchase Birth Control Pills at Pharmacies in Malaysia?
Based on Speedoc Malaysia, oral contraceptive pills in Malaysia are available over-the-counter, but the suitability of these pills varies based on factors like weight, family history, medical history, and social factors. Estrogen content may not be suitable for certain individuals, and different types of progesterone have varying properties to accommodate different needs. Hence, it is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist for personalised guidance in choosing the most appropriate oral contraceptive pill to avoid potential risks.
Find more products and services to help maintain your reproductive health:
- Best Pregnancy Tests in Malaysia
- Best Pap Smear Screening Packages in Malaysia
- Best Gynaecologist Centres in Kuala Lumpur
6 Best Birth Control Pill Brands in Malaysia 2025
1. Yasmin
Yasmin is a contraceptive pill that combines two hormones, ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and drospirenone (a progestin), primarily used for pregnancy prevention. In addition to its contraceptive effects, birth control pills like Yasmin can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual blood flow and pain, and lower the risk of ovarian cysts. It is important to note that while this medication is effective at preventing pregnancy, it does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, gonorrhoea, or chlamydia.
ALPRO PHARMACY2. Diane-35
Diane-35 combines two hormones: cyproterone acetate (a progestin) and ethinylestradiol (an estrogen). This combination is primarily used as a birth control pill to prevent pregnancy. However, Diane-35 is also prescribed to treat certain androgen-related conditions in women, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hirsutism (excessive hair growth). It works by regulating the menstrual cycle, reducing the production of androgens (male hormones), and preventing ovulation.
ALPRO PHARMACY3. Microgynon
Microgynon contains two hormones, ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel, which work together to prevent pregnancy. They do this by inhibiting ovulation, making it challenging for sperm to reach an egg, and interfering with the egg’s ability to implant in the uterine lining. When taken correctly, this pill is highly effective, with a 99% success rate in preventing pregnancy. However, if not consistently taken as directed, approximately 9 out of 100 women may become pregnant.
ALPRO PHARMACY4. Mercilon
Mercilon has two hormones, desogestrel and ethinylestradiol, which work together to prevent pregnancy. These hormones inhibit ovulation, making it hard for sperm to reach an egg, and interfere with the egg’s ability to implant in the uterine lining. Starting Mercilon on days 1 to 5 of your menstrual period provides immediate protection against pregnancy, assuming you have a regular cycle. However, if you commence use after day 1 or have a short or irregular menstrual cycle, it is advisable to use condoms for 7 days alongside Mercilon to ensure effective contraceptive coverage.
ALPRO PHARMACY5. Cerazette®
Cerazette® is a progestogen-only mini pill that features desogestrel as its active ingredient, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. This contraceptive pill is prescribed to sexually active women who wish to avoid pregnancy. It is known for its effectiveness and serves as a suitable choice among mini pills or progestogen-only pills, particularly for women over 35 or those who smoke and seek an alternative to combined contraceptive pills.
ALPRO PHARMACY6. ESCAPELLE®
ESCAPELLE® comprises a single female hormone, levonorgestrel, which is a type of progestin. Its primary mechanism of action involves preventing pregnancy by either delaying or inhibiting ovulation, the process where an egg is released from the ovary, thereby averting fertilisation. The effectiveness of this birth control pill is significantly higher when taken promptly after unprotected intercourse.
ALPRO PHARMACYDisclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
