Emergency contraception
Helping you prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex
If you’ve had unprotected sex or think your contraception hasn’t worked properly, you could be pregnant.
If used quickly enough, emergency contraception can help you prevent an unwanted pregnancy.
We offer two kinds of emergency contraception – the IUD and the emergency contraceptive pill.
Get in touch
Speak to us on WhatsApp about emergency contraception or email us to book an appointment.
Intrauterine device (IUD)
The IUD is the most effective form of emergency contraceptive. If inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex, it can prevent up to 99.9% of unplanned pregnancy.
It’s also an effective, long-acting reversible contraceptive and can be left in for 5 or 10 years depending on which type is used.
Emergency contraceptive pill
The emergency contraceptive pill, also known as the ‘morning after pill’, can be used to reduce the risk of an unplanned pregnancy. If taken within 5 days of unprotected sex it can be up to 85% effective.
If you want to protect against future pregnancy, it’s a good idea to use a short-term or long-term method of contraception. Speak to us about finding the right method for you.
Frequently asked questions about emergency contraception
Emergency contraception offers the following advantages:
– It is safe for almost all women
– Using emergency contraception does not affect long term fertility
– It does not cause an abortion
– You can use emergency contraception at any time in your menstrual cycle
– Emergency contraception is not harmful to your health.
If you still have questions about emergency contraception, send us a message on WhatsApp.
Emergency contraception only works up to 5 days after unprotected sex, so you should take it as soon as possible to prevent getting pregnant.
If you’ve had unprotected sex more than 5 days ago, and/or you are late for your period, you will need to take a pregnancy test.
You can have a pregnancy test at any of our clinics – find one near you.
If your period arrives as normal around the same time it usually would, then it’s unlikely you’re pregnant.
However, if you miss your next period or you notice changes – such as your period being lighter or shorter than usual – than you may be pregnant.
We recommend you contact us so we can arrange a pregnancy test for you.
Emergency contraceptives can interfere with other medications. Depending which brand of emergency contraception you use, there is a small risk it may affect the following medication:
– St John’s Wort herbal medicine
– Various epilepsy medicines
– Various HIV medicines
– Various tuberculosis (TB) medicines
– Antacid medicines
Book a consultation with us today and we can work out the best treatment to suit you.
Take the contraception quiz
Our online contraception counsellor will help you understand the best contraception methods for you based on your lifestyle, preferences and medical circumstances.
- Personalised advice in a few minutes
- Tailored pros and cons for each method
- Ability to compare different methods
Why not get an STI test while visiting us?
Getting an STI test will ensure your body is safe and infection-free before trying a new method of contraception.
Call 0800 753 333 or email us to book your appointment.
Think you may need emergency contraception?
Call us toll-free
0800 753 333
Find a clinic near you.
Other types of contraception available
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