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Emergency Contraception

Need emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after you’ve had sex. It can be used when you’ve had unprotected sex, missed a pill, or a condom has burst. It should never be used as an alternative to normal contraception.

There are 2 types

emergency contraceptive pill (sometimes called the morning after pill)

copper coil (IUD)

There are 3 options for emergency contraception:

The emergency intrauterine device (IUD)

An IUD (also known as a coil) is a small plastic and copper device that is fitted in your uterus up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected sex or up to five days from the earliest date you could have ovulated.   It is the most effective method of emergency contraception. It can be fitted by your GP or sexual health clinic. It takes 15 – 20 minutes to fit and fitting can be uncomfortable.

Once fitted you can keep the IUD in for 5-10 years, as a reversible form of contraception (depending on type.)

The emergency contraceptive pill: ellaOne

ellaOne is a pill which contains ulipristal acetate.  It is more effective than Upostelle and Levonelle and can be taken within five days (120 hours) of having unprotected sex and is available from your GP, sexual health clinic, pharmacy and most minor injury units.

The emergency contraceptive pill: Upostelle and Levonelle

Levonelle/Upostelle are pills which contain the hormone levonorgestrel.  It can be taken within three days (72 hours) of having unprotected sex and is available from your GP, sexual health clinic, pharmacy and most minor injury units.

Where can I get Emergency Contraception?

Emergency Contraception is available free, in a non judgemental and confidential environment.

Emergency contraception is not as reliable as using other methods of regularly taken contraception.  There are many different types of contraception you can choose from.  Use our contraception page to find the best fit for you.