Emergency contraception is to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It is NOT for getting a repeat of your usual contraception.
It is important to get emergency contraception as soon as possible after unprotected sex and ideally within 3 days (72 hours) to maximise effectiveness.
However, options are available until at least 5 days (120 hours) after and occasionally longer depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle.
Where can I get emergency contraception?
The main types of emergency contraception are listed below. Visit Sexwise: Emergency contraception for more information.
Morning after pill
You can get advice and access emergency oral contraception (most commonly known as the morning after pill) from:
- Contraception or sexual health clinics – like us!
- Brook centres
- Some pharmacies (free of charge if you are under 21 years of age – visit oxme.info for a list of pharmacies that offer this service)
- for a list of pharmacies in Oxfordshire).
- Most NHS walk-in centres and minor injuries units
- Most GP surgeries
Two pills are available. We can advise as to which is the most appropriate pill for you, based on your individual circumstances. Contact us for a same / next day telephone consultation.
Emergency coil
Also known as an emergency copper intra-uterine device (IUD) or emergency copper coil, this is the most effective method of emergency contraception and can also be used as ongoing contraception.
Contact us for a same / next day telephone consultation; you will then be given a clinic appointment if necessary.
Why you might need emergency contraception
- You had sex without using contraception
- You used a condom but are worried it split / came off
- You are using contraceptive pills / patch but are worried you have not been using these properly
- You are late getting your Depo Provera injection (14 weeks or more since last injection)
- You have an implant but the recommended renewal date has passed
- You had a coil but it may have fallen out or you can’t feel the threads