If you have had sex without using contraception or think your method may have failed, you will need emergency contraception (The Morning After Pill).
Have you:
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had sex without using contraception
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used a condom that has split or come off
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forgotten or missed pills
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taken antibiotics whilst on the pill
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taken the pill and then vomited.
If you act quickly, emergency contraception can usually prevent pregnancy.
The pills may work by stopping an egg from being released (ovulation). Or they may stop a fertilized egg from settling in your womb (implanting).
Emergency contraception can be taken up to 72 hours after having unprotected sex, but are best if taken in the first 24 hours. If you are running out of time, or making a long journey, we advise you to phone first to make sure there is someone available to provide you with the treatment you need.
These are the places where you should be able to find emergency contraception:
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any GP
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any family planning clinic
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any young person's clinic or Brook Advisory Clinic
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most genito-urinary medicine (GUM/Sexual health) clinics
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some hospital accident and emergency departments
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some chemists
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places listed on the info line on 0800 0728748 or visit the services section on this website.
Remember using a condom helps protect you from unwanted pregnancy and catching sexually transmitted infections.
Better safe than sorry - if you are 19 or under you can get FREE condoms, just join the C Card scheme. It's easy to register, free and confidential.