Emergency Hormonal Contraception (Morning After Pill)

When to book emergency contraception

Consider the morning after pill as soon as possible if:

• You have had sex without using any contraception
• A condom split, slipped off or was not used correctly
• You have missed one or more of your regular contraceptive pills
• Your patch, ring or injection was late or used incorrectly
• You are worried your contraception may not have worked

Emergency contraception is most effective the sooner it is taken, so visit your nearest branch straight away. No appointment is needed.

What is emergency hormonal contraception?

Emergency hormonal contraception prevents pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is a backup, not a regular method. The NHS lists two types available in the UK:

• Levonorgestrel (Levonelle) - taken within 72 hours (3 days). It prevents or delays ovulation, and works best the sooner it is taken, preventing up to 95% of pregnancies within the first 24 hours
• Ulipristal acetate (ellaOne) - taken within 120 hours (5 days). Generally more effective than levonorgestrel, particularly between 72 and 120 hours

Neither is 100% effective, and neither protects against sexually transmitted infections. Our pharmacists can advise on STI testing if you are concerned.

Who can use the morning after pill?

Emergency contraception suits most women of childbearing age. Levonorgestrel may be less effective above 70kg or a BMI over 26, and ulipristal acetate above 85kg or a BMI over 30. Enzyme-inducing medicines and St John's Wort can reduce effectiveness, so tell the pharmacist what you take. If you are breastfeeding, levonorgestrel is generally considered safe, while ulipristal acetate requires expressing and discarding milk for a period afterwards.

Side effects

Side effects are usually mild and pass within a few days. They can include nausea, headache, abdominal pain, tiredness, dizziness and a next period that is early, late, heavier or lighter than usual. If you vomit within two hours of levonorgestrel or three hours of ulipristal acetate, the dose may not have been absorbed, so speak to us about a replacement.

Ongoing contraception advice

If you find yourself needing emergency contraception often, our pharmacists can talk through regular options including the combined pill, progesterone-only pill, patch, vaginal ring, implant, injection and intrauterine devices. Our bridging contraception service can supply regular contraception while you arrange a longer-term method with your GP or sexual health clinic.

Find emergency contraception near you

Walk into any branch and ask to speak to a pharmacist. A brief, private consultation checks your medical history and identifies the right option, and if suitable the pill is supplied immediately. Both levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate are available, from experienced pharmacists, without judgement. Use the postcode search above to find your nearest Allied Pharmacy.