The legal framework
Contraception is available through the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong, Department of Health clinics, private doctors and pharmacies. The FPAHK provides a full range of services at low cost, including for young people through its Youth Health Care Centres.
Key points
| Providers | Family Planning Association, Department of Health, private doctors, pharmacies |
|---|---|
| Oral contraception | Available through clinics; some pharmacies sell it directly |
| Emergency contraception | Available at FPAHK, clinics and some pharmacies |
| Young people | Youth Health Care Centres provide confidential services |
| LARC | IUDs and implants provided by FPAHK and hospitals |
| Cost | Low at FPAHK; higher privately |
| Family Planning Association | The main low-cost provider, including for young people |
| Youth clinics | Dedicated services for people under 26 |
In practice
- Ask about long-acting methods — implants and IUDs are the most effective and often the cheapest over time.
- Check contraindications: smoking over 35, migraine with aura and a history of clots rule out combined methods.
- Keep emergency contraception at home; the sooner it is taken, the better it works.
- Only condoms also protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- Use the youth health care service if you are under 26: it is cheaper and designed for confidentiality.
- For emergency contraception, call a clinic the same day rather than a pharmacy.
Cost and coverage
Low cost at FPAHK; market rates in the private sector.
Recent changes
The FPAHK remains the central provider, and its youth services are the main confidential route for under-18s.
Where to go
- Family Planning Association of Hong Kong clinics and hotline.
- Department of Health Woman Health Centres.
- Youth Health Care Centres for under-26s.
Worth knowing
FPAHK youth centres are designed for confidential access, which matters for young people who cannot use a family doctor. A prescription is required for emergency contraception, so the practical constraint is clinic opening hours — check them before you need them.
Official sources and links
- GovHK — official government portal