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Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if the contraception you have used has failed – for example, a condom has split or you have missed a pill.
There are 2 types of emergency contraception
Image of two pills on a plain background representing emergency contraception

Emergency contraceptive pill

You need to take the emergency contraceptive pill - commonly known as the 'Morning-after pill' - within:
  • 3 days (Levonelle) 
  • 5 days (ellaOne)
​​​​​​​of unprotected sex for it to be effective – the sooner you take it, the more effective it'll be.
You can get it free from many community pharmacies, your GP and one of our clinics  If you live in Hertfordshire and are 16 years of age or above, you can also order Emergency contraception online for free from SH:24. You can also buy the emergency contraceptive pill at most pharmacies.
Picture of an emergency contraceptive coil on plain background

Intrauterine device (IUD or coil)

The IUD (Coil) can be fitted up to 5 days after unprotected sex, or up to 5 days after the earliest time you could have ovulated, for it to be effective.
The IUD is more effective than the contraceptive pill at preventing pregnancy – less than 1% of women who use the IUD get pregnant.
If you think you require an emergency IUD, please contact our call centre on 03000085522.
Emergency contraception does not stop you getting or passing on sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use a condom every time you have sex to help protect you and your partner against STIs, including HIV.
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