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Emergency Contraception

Close up picture of a pack of white pills

If you’ve had unprotected sex, problems with a condom coming off or splitting, or been sick whilst using the contraceptive pill try not to panic! Read on for information about getting emergency contraception.

What is emergency contraception?


Emergency contraception – sometimes called ‘the morning after pill’ - can prevent pregnancy in most cases if taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. The sooner it’s taken the more effective it’s likely to be so try not to delay!

How it works

Despite being called the morning after pill, it can be taken up to 72 hours after sex, but it is most effective when taken in the first 24 hours. The sooner it is taken the better chance it has of preventing a pregnancy. Hormones in the pill stop ovaries from releasing eggs and make the womb slippery so a fertilised egg can't attach itself to develop any further.

“I think I’ve left it too late...”
Don’t despair. If you didn’t manage to get emergency contraception within 72 hours of having unprotected sex you should still seek help. They may be able to fit an IUD as an emergency contraceptive method up to 5 days after unprotected sex.

It's better to plan ahead

Although the morning after pill can be an effective way to avoid pregnancy if you have had unprotected sex, it isn't a planned method of contraception.

It is better to plan ahead and use a reliable method of contraception before you have sex, such as condoms. Then you won't have the worry of an unwanted pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Risks of unprotected sex

Remember, the morning after pill doesn't protect you from HIV or other STIs, so you need to think about getting an STI check if you've had unprotected sex. If you have not had a period within 3 weeks after taking emergency contraception you should get a pregnancy test.

It is sometimes possible to prevent a pregnancy up to 5 days after sex by having a coil inserted by a doctor. If you feel you may be at risk of an unwanted pregnancy or an STI, go see a doctor or nurse to get the help you need.

Where to get emergency contraception

Emergency contraception is available free of charge to young people from a range of local services, including pharmacies involved in local emergency contraception schemes. If you are over 16 you can, if you choose, also buy it from chemists.

Also see:

  • KU19 Clinics
    Tel: 020 8549 6323
    Text: 07781 488 019
    Email: ku19@kpct.nhs.uk
    Kingston's health service for under 19s. Drop in at one of the Ku19 clinics in the Borough or call, text or email for health advice and info on sex, contraception, pregancy and chlamydia testing.
  • Getting It On: Where to get Emergency Contraception
    You can see more up-to-date info about where you can get emergency contraception here.