Emergency Hormonal Contraception

Emergency contraception helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or a contraceptive failure. It works by delaying ovulation so sperm cannot meet an egg. It does not end an existing pregnancy and is most effective the sooner it is taken.

Effectiveness depends on the type used and how quickly you take it. Levonorgestrel works best within 12-24 hours, while ulipristal (ellaOne) is effective up to 120 hours. Neither method is 100 percent reliable, but both significantly reduce the chance of pregnancy when taken promptly.

The sooner the better. Levonorgestrel should ideally be taken within 24 hours, while ulipristal can work up to 120 hours. Delaying reduces effectiveness. Taking it immediately after the risk gives the strongest protection and lowers the chance of needing additional treatment.

Ulipristal (ellaOne) often works better close to ovulation and is effective up to 120 hours. Levonorgestrel suits many people when taken quickly. Your recent cycle, medicines and timing after sex help determine the best choice. A clinician will confirm which option fits your situation.

Some people notice nausea, tummy discomfort, tiredness or a mild headache. Your next period may be slightly early or late. These effects are usually short lived. Severe pain or ongoing symptoms are uncommon and should be checked by a clinician.

Yes, but it shouldn’t be used as a regular method because effectiveness is lower than daily contraception. Using it multiple times does not harm your long-term fertility, but your cycle may become irregular. A clinician can help you choose a reliable ongoing method.

Yes. UK-regulated online pharmacies supply emergency contraception after a short confidential assessment to ensure it is safe and effective for you. It cannot be sold without checks, and unregulated websites should be avoided.

Effectiveness decreases the closer you are to ovulation because the hormones cannot delay egg release as easily. Ulipristal (ellaOne) usually works better than levonorgestrel at this stage, though pregnancy cannot be fully ruled out. A clinician may recommend a follow-up test.

If you vomit within three hours of taking a pill, you may need another dose because the medicine might not have been absorbed. Contact a clinician or pharmacy for advice, as timing is crucial for maintaining protection.

Yes, your period may come slightly earlier or later than usual. Some people notice lighter or heavier bleeding. These changes are temporary. If your period is more than seven days late, or symptoms suggest pregnancy, take a test.

Yes. Many people use emergency contraception after missed pills, patch issues or split condoms. You can restart your usual contraception afterwards, though timing depends on which pill you used. Always check for interactions, especially with ulipristal.

Some medicines, including certain epilepsy drugs and herbal products like St John’s wort, can reduce the effectiveness of emergency contraception. Ulipristal is more affected by interactions than levonorgestrel. A clinician will help choose the safest option.

No. Emergency contraception only protects you from the specific episode of unprotected sex. You can become pregnant again later in your cycle, so ongoing contraception should be restarted promptly.

Body weight can influence the effectiveness of some types. Ulipristal (ellaOne) is usually preferred for people over a certain weight (70kg or a BMI over 26), as levonorgestrel may be less reliable. A clinician can advise which option offers the best protection.

Take a test if your period is more than seven days late, or if you have symptoms suggesting pregnancy. Even when taken promptly, emergency contraception is not completely guaranteed, so testing is a sensible precaution.