Emergency contraception helps to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It’s an option if you’ve missed a regular contraceptive pill, a contraceptive method has failed (e.g. a condom has broken), and/or you’ve had sex without using contraception. It does not cause an abortion and is not meant to replace regular contraception.

There are two types of emergency contraception:

• emergency contraceptive pill (sometimes called the “morning after” pill)
• copper coil (IUD), which can also be used as ongoing contraception

You can get the emergency contraceptive pill and the IUD from our practice by calling us at 8:00 AM of any weekday of your choice to book an appointment. It’s important you do this at your earliest convenience as emergency contraception can be up to 99% effective at preventing pregnancy if it is used as soon as possible after unprotected sex—ideally within a window of 24 hours to 5 days.

Other places where you can access free emergency contraception and confidential advice include:

• most pharmacies
• some minor injuries units
• some Accident & Emergency departments

If our practice and your nearby pharmacies are closed, and you would like to speak to someone urgently about emergency contraception, please phone NHS 24’s 111 service.

Find out more information about emergency contraception here. Alternatively, information about emergency contraception is available in British Sign Language (BSL) from SignHealth. Services available may vary by location.

Clinical information taken from NHS Inform.