Emergency Contraception
Emergency Contraception, also known as the morning after pill, is available without a prescription if your regular contraception method has failed or if you’ve had unprotected sex in the last five days and are concerned you may be pregnant.
The medication works by stopping or delaying ovulation (during which the body releases an egg). Depending on the type of morning after pill you take, it can also prevent a fertilised egg from implanting itself in the lining of the womb.
It is a safe and highly effective method of avoiding unwanted pregnancies, although note that you won’t be able to access this treatment without a prescription if you’re under the age of 16.
Also note that while the morning after pill isn’t 100% effective, taking it within 12 hours of unprotected sex delivers a greater chance of preventing pregnancy.
Potential side-effects of taking emergency contraception include morning sickness, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, tender breasts, unexpected bleeding (unrelated to the menstrual cycle) and lower abdominal pain.
It is also important to note that emergency contraception will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. Only barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, can successfully protect against STDs. If you’re concerned that you may have been exposed, it is advisable to speak to a healthcare professional as soon as you can.
What are the different types of morning after pill?
Levonelle (Levonorgestrel)
Levonelle is an emergency contraceptive that can be taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancies. It works by preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg, thereby stopping fertilisation. It should be taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sex in order to be successful at preventing pregnancy. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it is.
Take one pill as soon as possible with water. If you vomit or have diarrhoea within two hours of taking the pill, it may not be absorbed properly and its efficacy may be compromised. In this instance, get in touch with a healthcare professional for further advice.
EllaOne
EllaOne is a form of birth control medication that can be taken following unprotected sex in order to prevent pregnancies. It works by preventing the ovaries from releasing eggs so that fertilisation cannot take place.
One pill should be taken orally with water within 120 hours (five days) of having unprotected sex in order to be effective. The sooner it is taken, the greater the chances of success. After five days, it’s possible that it will be entirely ineffective. If you need to take emergency contraception after this period of time, seek further contraceptive advice from a healthcare professional.
Note that whichever morning after pill you choose to take, if you have unprotected sex after taking it pregnancies will not be prevented.
Levonelle vs EllaOne Which Is Right for You?
Both morning after pills are effective, but there are key differences that may make one more suitable than the other depending on your circumstances. Your pharmacist will advise during your consultation, but the table below gives a useful overview.
| Levonelle (Levonorgestrel) | EllaOne (Ulipristal Acetate) | |
|---|---|---|
| Time window | Up to 72 hours (3 days) | Up to 120 hours (5 days) |
| Most effective when taken | As soon as possible | As soon as possible |
| Suitable if breastfeeding | Yes (with advice) | No breastfeeding should be avoided for one week |
| Affected by body weight | May be less effective with higher body weight | More reliable across a wider weight range |
| Available on NHS | Yes (subject to eligibility) | Yes (subject to eligibility) |
If you are taking other medications, your pharmacist will check for any interactions before supplying either medication.
What Happens After Taking Emergency Contraception?
Your next period may arrive earlier or later than expected following emergency contraception. This is normal. If your period is more than 7 days late, or lighter or heavier than usual, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test.
If you vomit within 2 hours of taking Levonelle, or within 3 hours of taking EllaOne, contact your pharmacist or a healthcare professional immediately, as the medication may not have been fully absorbed and a replacement dose may be needed.
Ongoing contraception; Emergency contraception is not intended as a regular form of contraception. Following your consultation, your pharmacist can discuss longer-term contraception options and refer you to the appropriate service if you would like to explore a more reliable ongoing method.
If you are concerned you may be pregnant; Emergency contraception does not end an existing pregnancy. If you think you may already be pregnant, or if your next period is delayed after taking emergency contraception or lighter than normal, please take a pregnancy test and speak to a healthcare professional.
When Should You Seek Further Advice?
While emergency contraception is safe for most people, please seek further advice from a healthcare professional if:
- You are already using another hormonal contraceptive this may affect the suitability of EllaOne in particular
- You have a condition affecting your liver, or are taking medications that affect liver enzymes (such as certain epilepsy or HIV medications), as these can reduce the effectiveness of both pills
- You experience severe lower abdominal pain after taking the medication, which could indicate an ectopic pregnancy
- Your period is significantly delayed or abnormal following use
- You are under 16 – further assessment is required and advice can be given from the pharmacy team
Why Choose Newdays Pharmacy?
Here at Newdays Pharmacy, we offer a range of private and NHS services. You can find out more about us online and book an appointment with one of our pharmacists in your preferred branch.
We provide an alternative way to source emergency contraception. Once you’ve filled out an online consultation, our certified pharmacists will determine the most appropriate course of action for you, based on the answers you provide and your medical history.
- No GP appointment needed; our pharmacists can supply emergency contraception directly following a brief confidential consultation
- Fast access; walk in to any Newdays branch without an appointment; time is critical with emergency contraception and we aim to see you as quickly as possible
- Completely confidential; all consultations are carried out in a private room and your information is handled with full discretion
- Both Levonelle and EllaOne available; your pharmacist will recommend the most appropriate option based on your timing, weight and medical history
- NHS and private supply; emergency contraception may be available free of charge on the NHS subject to eligibility; your pharmacist will confirm this during your consultation
- Ongoing contraception advice; if you would like to discuss longer-term contraception options, our pharmacists can provide guidance and refer you to the appropriate service
- Four convenient branches serving Windsor, Eton, Lane End, Twyford and Reading (Coley Park)
How it works
Visit or Contact Us Promptly
Walk in to your nearest branch or book online no GP appointment needed. Time is critical, so come in as soon as possible after unprotected sex for the best chance of effectiveness.
Prescription sent
Our pharmacist will discreetly discuss your situation and medical history to determine the most appropriate emergency contraception for you whether that's Levonelle or EllaOne
Receive Your Emergency Contraception
Your pharmacist will supply the recommended medication straight away, along with clear guidance on how and when to take it and what to do if you experience any side effects
FAQ
Common Questions & Answers
What emergency contraception is available at pharmacies?
The morning-after pill, usually containing levonorgestrel, is commonly available after a pharmacist consultation.
How soon should I take emergency contraception?
It should be taken as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of unprotected sex for maximum effectiveness.
Do I need a prescription for the morning-after pill?
No, it can be supplied directly by a pharmacist following a brief consultation.
Does emergency contraception protect against STIs?
No, it only prevents pregnancy and does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.
Who can take the morning-after pill?
It is suitable for most individuals, but a pharmacist will assess eligibility based on your situation.