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 headaches, 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.
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.
How it works
Nominate online
Complete our online form to nominate your preferred branch to receive your prescriptions
Prescription sent
Your GP will send your next and future prescriptions to your selected branch electronically
Ready to collect
We will prepare your medication ready to be collected from your preferred branch as normal
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.