Emergency Contraceptive
What is Emergency Hormonal Contraception?
If you did not use contraception or if you think that the contraception you did use did not work, Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC) can help prevent pregnancy. The EHC pill is effective up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, but should be taken as soon as possible.
EHC is around 95% effective and you are advised to take it as soon as possible. If after taking EHC you have reason to suspect you may be pregnant, please seek advice from a health professional.
It is important to seek advice as soon as you can. The Intrauterine Device (coil) could be an option as it is 99% effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex or within 5 days of the earliest time you could have released an egg. Contact your GP or nearest sexual health clinic.
Sexual Health Services and your doctor can help you decide on a method of contraception that suits you. The services are free and confidential. If you would like to book an appointment or discuss your choices with a healthcare professional please contact your local Sexual Health Clinic or speak to your doctor.
You can also get free condoms from a variety of venues. To find your local distribution points, contact your local Sexual Health Services.
You can get Emergency Hormonal Contraception:
Pharmacies: http://www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/locationsearch/10
A large number (not all) pharmacies provide Emergency Contraception tablets to women of all ages free of charge
It's a good idea to ring ahead to check they offer the service and that the pharmasist is on duty
You can also buy it at most pharmacies.
Your own doctor
Urgent care centres (walk in centres but not accident and emergencies)
Occasionally the pharmacist on duty may not be able to provide EHC. In these instances you will be referred to another health care professional. You can also call the pharmacy before you visit to check that you will be able to get EHC.
No. This service is available to people of all ages, including under 16s.
If you have had unprotected sex you could be at risk of sexually transmitted infections. You can talk to the healthcare professional dispensing EHC about getting tested and they will be able to refer you to a local clinic. You can also call one of the numbers overleaf for more information and advice.
To book an appointment, please contact your local Sexual Health Services or doctor.
If you are 15-24 you can request a Chlamydia test online.
