Emergency Contraception
If you have had unprotected sex or there is a possibility that your contraception may have failed, it may be appropriate for the pharmacist to sell you emergency contraception also known as “the morning after pill”.
Depending on your age, in some pharmacies this service is available free of charge where it is funded locally by the NHS.
Taking Emergency Contraception
It is possible to use emergency contraception up to 5 days after unprotected sex however the sooner you take it the more effective it will be. There are two different medications that can be supplied, both medicines work by delaying or stopping the release of an egg.
Taking emergency contraception can give you a headache or tummy pain and make you feel or be sick. If you are sick within three hours of taking the tablet you must contact your pharmacist, GP or GUM clinic as you may need to take another dose.
Supply of emergency contraception will involve a private consultation with the pharmacist. The pharmacist will ask you a variety of questions including your age, details about your menstrual cycle and medical history. Some of the questions may seem personal but they are essential to ensure the medication is supplied to you safely. Using the information provided the pharmacist will advise you as to the best course of action.
Emergency Contraception does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections, for more information on sexual health please speak to the pharmacist.