How to get NHS emergency contraception
If you’ve had unprotected sex or your usual contraception has failed, we can help. We offer fast, confidential NHS emergency contraception (the “morning after pill”) at Granta Pharmacy. This service is provided by our trained pharmacists as an NHS service, which means it is free for eligible patients under current NHS arrangements in England.
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or when something has gone wrong with your usual method (for example, a missed pill or a split condom). It does not cause an abortion and it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
There are 2 main types of emergency contraception available on the NHS:
nhs.uk
- The emergency contraceptive pill (morning after pill) – taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex
- The copper intrauterine device (IUD/coil) – fitted by a doctor or nurse within 5 days of unprotected sex, and is the most effective option
For detailed NHS information on emergency contraception click here.
Who can get NHS emergency contraception?
Most people who can become pregnant can safely use emergency contraception. Our pharmacist will ask you a few simple, confidential questions to check which option is suitable for you.
You should seek emergency contraception if:
- You’ve had unprotected sex (including if you didn’t use any contraception)
- You missed one or more contraceptive pills, or started a new pack late
- A condom split, slipped off or came off during sex
- Your contraceptive patch or ring has fallen off or been removed for too long
- You’re worried your usual method may not have worked for any reason
NHS emergency contraception is available free from:
- Pharmacies that provide an NHS emergency contraception service (like Granta Pharmacy)
- Most GP surgeries
- Most sexual health / contraception clinics and some young people’s services
Our service is friendly, non-judgemental and confidential, including for younger people. If we feel a copper IUD might be more suitable, we can advise you where to get this fitted locally.
When should I seek emergency contraception?
The sooner you get emergency contraception, the better it works.
- Levonorgestrel pill – usually needs to be taken within 3 days (72 hours) of unprotected sex
- Ulipristal acetate pill (e.g. ellaOne) – can be taken up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex
- Copper IUD – can be fitted within 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex, or up to 5 days after the earliest time you could have ovulated
If you are unsure how long it has been since unprotected sex, please contact us as soon as possible and we can advise you.
Who might not be able to use the emergency pill?
Most people can safely take the morning after pill. However, in some situations it may not be suitable, or a copper IUD may be recommended instead. Our pharmacist will check:
- Any medicines you take that may affect how well the pill works
- Whether you’ve had vomiting or severe diarrhoea
- Whether you are breastfeeding or have certain medical conditions
- How long it has been since unprotected sex
If the emergency pill isn’t the best option for you, we will discuss alternatives and help you access the right service.
What are the side effects of emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception is considered safe and serious side effects are rare. Some people may experience mild, short-lived side effects such as:
- Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)
- Headache or dizziness
- Tummy (abdominal) pain or cramps
- Tiredness
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting or changes to your next period (earlier, later, lighter or heavier than usual)
If you vomit within 3 hours of taking the pill, you may need another dose – speak to a pharmacist, GP or clinic straight away.
nhs.uk
Emergency contraception does not protect against STIs, so you may still need a sexual health check if you’re at risk.
NHS inform
What happens at my pharmacy consultation?
At Granta Pharmacy your emergency contraception consultation will be:
- Private – carried out in our consultation room
- Confidential – your information is kept secure and only shared where clinically necessary
- Quick – we aim to provide same-day access whenever possible
- Supportive – we’ll answer your questions and discuss ongoing contraception options
If the emergency pill is suitable, we’ll supply it there and then as an NHS medicine. If a copper IUD is more appropriate, we’ll help direct you to a local service that can fit it.
When should I do a pregnancy test?
Your next period may be slightly earlier or later than usual. You should do a pregnancy test if:
- Your period is more than about a week late
- Your period is much lighter than usual
- You have any symptoms of pregnancy
If you’re unsure or worried, speak to our pharmacist or your GP for further advice.
Ongoing contraception and advice
Emergency contraception is for occasional use and should not replace regular contraception. During your visit we can:
- Discuss reliable ongoing contraception options
- Advise you if and when to start or restart your usual method
- Signpost you to local sexual health services for long-acting methods such as the coil, implant or injection
Contact us today for confidential advice or to arrange an NHS emergency contraception consultation in Sawston.
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