Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy after
having unprotected sex or when the usual method of contraception is
believed to have failed (a split condom, missed pill etc).
Emergency contraception can be in the form of a pill or an
intra-uterine device (IUD or the coil) and can be used within 3-5
days of unprotected sex.
The morning after or emergency pill (a.k.a. Levonelle) should be
taken within 72 hours (3 days) of having unproteceted
sex. However it is more effective the earlier you take
it.
The IUD can be fitted within 5 days of unprotected sex.
See links to the left for more information.
Remember:
- It doesn't cause an abortion.
- Almost every woman can use one of the methods if she acts in
time.
- It can be used if you are breastfeeding.
It should not be seen as a regular method of contraception – it
is much better to use a reliable method every time you have sex and
to be aware of the other risks carried by unprotected sex, like an
unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections such as
Chlamydia and HIV/AIDS.
Where can I get emergency contraception?
You can get the emergency pill and the emergency coil free
from:
You can also get the emergency pill free from:
- most NHS walk-in centres (in England only)
- some pharmacies (there may be age
restrictions)
- most NHS minor injuries units
- Hospital accident and emergency departments.
You can buy the emergency pill from:
- most pharmacies if you are 16 years old or over
- some privately run clinics, such as bpas and Marie Stopes
The price will vary but at the pharmacy it will cost around
£26.
(Source: Family planning association)