What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception can come in two forms; either the emergency contraceptive pill which is taken orally or an intrauterine device (otherwise known as an IUD or coil).
Helpful things to remember
- You will need to take the emergency contraception within 3 days (Levonelle) or 5 days (ellaOne) of unprotected sex for it to be effective, and the sooner it is taken the more effective it will be.
- An IUD can be fitted up to 5 days after the unprotected sex has occurred or up to 5 days after the earliest time that you may have ovulated for it to be effective.
- The IUD is more effective than the emergency contraceptive pill, with less than 1% of women who opt for this method falling pregnant.
- The emergency contraceptive pill can give unpleasant side effects such as head and stomachaches, nausea and vomiting. It can also make your next period earlier, later or more painful.
Where can I get emergency contraception?
You can get emergency contraception from all of the below places, even if you are under the age of 16, but not all of these places will necessarily offer the IUD option.
- Contraception and sexual health clinics (GUM clinics)
- Some GP surgeries
- Some young people’s clinics
- Most NHS walk-in centres and minor injuries units
- Most pharmacies