If you’re a woman aged between 14 and 35 and you’ve had unprotected sex (without a condom) in the last 72 hours, emergency contraception can stop you from getting pregnant. 

You need to use emergency contraception within 3 to 5 days after unprotected sex (sex without a condom or other contraception or when contraception might have failed).

The sooner you use emergency contraception, the more effective it usually is.

There are 2 types of emergency contraception:

• an IUD (intrauterine device) also called a copper coil
• the emergency contraceptive pill (also called the morning after pill)

The IUD is the most effective type of emergency contraception.

To get emergency contraception, go into your nearest local pharmacy and speak to the pharmacist. Most pharmacies have a discreet private room for consultations. 

Find your nearest pharmacy using our convenient map tool

Types of emergency contraception: 

IUD

An IUD can be fitted within 5 days (120 hours) after sex.

It's a small plastic T-shape that a specially trained nurse or doctor can put into your womb.

You need to make an appointment to have an IUD fitted by a nurse or doctor. This is usually done at a sexual health clinic or GP surgery.

An IUD can be left in as your usual method of contraception. It lasts for 5 or 10 years, depending on the type.

Find out about the IUD, including side effects and who can use it.

Emergency contraceptive pill

There are 2 main types of emergency pill used in the UK:

• levonorgestrel (brands include Levonelle) which you need to take within 3 days (72 hours) after sex
• ulipristal acetate (brands include ellaOne) which you need to take within 5 days (120 hours) after sex

Find out about emergency hormonal contraception, including side effects and who can use it

If you need emergency contraception, find your nearest pharmacy using our convenient map tool now.