Emergency contraception is not as effective as regular contraception. It works by reducing the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex.

It is best to take the morning-after pill as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours, when it is most effective. In the UK, there are two types of hormonal emergency contraception. Levonorgestrel can be taken up to 72 hours (three days) after unprotected sex. Ulipristal acetate can be taken up to 120 hours, or five days. The sooner you take it, the better it works. Levonorgestrel becomes less effective the longer you wait, while ulipristal acetate remains effective for up to five days. So don't delay.

You can get emergency contraception without a prescription. It is free on the NHS, whatever your age, including if you are under 16. You can get it from sexual health clinics, GP surgeries, some pharmacies, NHS walk-in centres and some young people's sexual health services. Some pharmacies also sell it, so you can buy it without a prescription if you prefer.

It can cause some unpleasant side effects, such as nausea, headaches, stomach pain, and sometimes a little spotting or bleeding, which usually settles quickly. If you vomit within three hours of taking it, you may need another dose. If you have diarrhoea, ask your pharmacist for advice.

Remember, emergency contraception is for emergencies. It should not become a regular method: it contains a high dose of hormones and is not designed for repeated use. It does not replace ongoing contraception. If you have another episode of unprotected sex in the same cycle, you can take it again, but speak to a pharmacist or doctor first.

It cannot end a pregnancy that has already implanted, and it does not protect against STIs (sexually transmitted infections).

Accidents happen — a missed pill, a condom that slips, splits or is damaged, or something else. Emergency contraception was developed for exactly these situations, to help avoid abortion as far as possible. Here is what you need to know about using it and the precautions to take.

In practice, remember this: every hour counts after unprotected sex, and emergency contraception never replaces regular contraception. If you are unsure what to do, a pharmacist or sexual health clinic can support you without judgement.

Cost and access

In the UK, emergency contraception is free on the NHS, whatever your age. You can get it from sexual health clinics, GP surgeries, some pharmacies and NHS walk-in centres. You do not need to pay upfront. Some pharmacies also sell it, and prices vary, so it is worth asking about free NHS provision first. If you would rather speak to a GP or nurse first, that appointment is free on the NHS.

Sources

  • NHS — Emergency contraception
  • Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) — Levonelle and ellaOne
  • Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH) — Emergency contraception