Emergency Contraception make this a condition page not a service

What is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception can stop you getting pregnant after unprotected sex (sex without contraception or when contraception might have failed).

It is important to get emergency contraception as soon as possible after unprotected sex and ideally within 3 days (72 hours) to maximise effectiveness.

However, options are available until at least 5 days (120 hours) after and occasionally longer depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle

Why you might need emergency contraception

You may need emergency contraception if you had sex: 

  • without using contraception
  • using a condom but worried that it may have spilt or came off
  • You are using contraceptive pills / patch but are worried you have not been using these properly

You are late getting your Depo Provera injection (14 weeks or more since last injection)
You have an implant but the recommended renewal date has passed
You had a coil but it may have fallen out or you can’t feel the threads

Types of Emergency contraception

Morning after pill

The emergency contraceptive pill, sometimes called the morning after pill, can stop a pregnancy happening after sex without contraception or if contraception fails.

You need to take it within 3 or 5 days after sex, depending on the type of pill. The sooner you take an emergency pill, the more likely it is to work.

Where to get it?

You can access emergency oral contraception by visiting: 

  • Contraception or sexual health clinics 
  • Pharmacies (Free of charge for those under 21 years of age) 
  • Most NHS walk in centres and minor injuries unit 
  • Most GP Surgeries 

Emergency coil

Also known as an emergency copper intra-uterine device (IUD) or emergency copper coil, this is the most effective method of emergency contraception and can also be used as ongoing contraception.

An IUD (intrauterine device), also called a copper coil, is a small plastic T-shape that a doctor or nurse puts into your womb (uterus).

Where to get it?

Please contact us for same or next day telephone consultation.  during this consultation, we can arrange an appointment at one of our clinics if required.