Understanding Abortion Law in Singapore (Termination of Pregnancy - TOP)
- Charmaine Kek
- 24 hours ago
- 4 min read
Facing an unplanned or difficult pregnancy can feel overwhelming. You may be dealing with fear, confusion, or pressure from different directions, and at the same time trying to understand what your options are. Having clear information can help you make decisions with greater confidence and less uncertainty.
In Singapore, abortion is governed by the Termination of Pregnancy (TOP) Act, where there are specific rules and procedures in place. This article explains the legal framework in simple terms, including whether abortion is legal, who can perform it, and whether consent from parents or partners is required.
Is Abortion Legal in Singapore?
Yes. Abortion (Termination of Pregnancy or TOP) is legal in Singapore under the Termination of Pregnancy Act.
However, it is subjected to specific legal conditions:
TOP is allowed only if the pregnancy is 24 weeks or below.
After 24 weeks, abortion is not permitted, unless it is immediately necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or to prevent grave permanent injury to her physical or mental health, supported by medical evidence.
The procedure must be requested by the pregnant woman herself and carried out with her written consent.
Any form of coercion or intimidation to force a woman to undergo abortion is a criminal offence.
Who Can Perform an Abortion in Singapore?
Abortion can only be carried out:
By an authorised medical practitioner (a doctor authorised under the Act), and
In an approved medical institution (such as licensed hospitals or approved surgical/medical centres).
For pregnancies between 16 and 24 weeks, the doctor must also have prescribed surgical or obstetric qualifications or having acquired special skill in performing such procedures.
Where abortion is done solely through prescribed medication (and no surgery was involved), it does not need to be carried out in an approved institution, but it must still be prescribed by an authorised medical practitioner.
Who Is Eligible to Obtain an Abortion in Singapore?
A woman may undergo TOP in Singapore if she is:
A Singapore citizen, or the wife of a Singapore citizen.
A work pass holder, or wife of a work pass holder, under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.
A person who has resided in Singapore for at least 4 months immediately before the procedure.
Tourists are not eligible for abortion in Singapore, unless the procedure is immediately necessary to save the woman's life, supported by documentary medical evidence.
Work Permit holders and Student Pass holders may undergo TOP if they have stayed in Singapore for at least 4 months before the procedure.
Do I Need My Parent's or My Partner's Consent?
Partner or Husband's Consent:
No. Only the pregnant woman herself can request and consent to the abortion. A husband or partner cannot sign the consent form on her behalf.
Parental Consent (For Girls Under 16):
Parental consent is not a legal requirement. However, unmarried girls below 16 years old must:
Attend mandatory pre-abortion counselling at HPB Counselling Centre.
Obtain a Certificate of Attendance.
Observe a 48 hour cooling period after counselling before giving written consent.
Counselling Requirements
Counselling is a key legal requirement under the TOP framework.
Mandatory Pre-Abortion Counselling
Women requesting TOP must undergo counselling, which may include:
Counselling videos
Educational pamphlets
Information such as abortion (e.g. the facts, contraceptive methods)
Personal counselling
For those below 16 years old, Teen Talk and counselling are conducted through HPB.
After counselling, there is a 48 hour cooling period before the woman can provide written consent.
Mandatory Post-Abortion Counselling
Post-abortion counselling can be given on the same day and includes:
Counselling videos.
Information on risks of repeated abortions.
Family planning and contraceptive counselling.
Counselling is conducted by a doctor or nurse trained in TOP counselling, with refresher training required every 2 years.
Confidentiality
Medical institutions are legally required to keep all information relating to the abortion confidential. Disclosure is only allowed with the woman's expressed consent or under legally prescribed situations.
What If A Woman Lacks Mental Capacity?
If a pregnant woman has mental disabilities, the doctor must rely on a psychiatric assessment to determine whether she can make her own decision. If she is assessed to lack capacity, legal advice must be sought to comply with the Mental Capacity Act.
Key Takeaway
In Singapore, abortion is legal but strictly regulated. The law protects:
The woman's right to decide,
Medical safety standards, and
Confidentiality and counselling.
Only authorised doctors in approved settings can carry out the procedure, and the decision must come from the pregnant woman herself.
Deciding whether to continue or end a pregnancy is deeply personal. The law in Singapore is designed to ensure that the decision rests with the pregnant woman, while also providing medical safeguards, counselling support, and privacy protections.
If you or someone you know is considering abortion, know that you do not have to navigate everything alone. Reach out to us at 9183 4483 and we are here to support you in understanding your options, and walking together with you through this time. Getting reliable information and support can make a difficult time more manageable. While the law explains what is permitted, taking time to consider support and alternatives may help you make a choice you can look back on with clarity.
Source: Attorney General's Chambers of Singapore
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