Emergency contraception is an important option for those who need to prevent an unplanned pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. However, there are many questions and misconceptions surrounding its use, effectiveness, and cost. At Halo Health, we want to provide clear and accurate information to help you make informed decisions. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about emergency contraception, including how much are emergency contraceptive pills in the UK.

Q1: What is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is a method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (such as a broken condom or missed birth control pills). It comes in two main forms:

• Emergency contraceptive pills (also known as the morning-after pill)
• The copper intrauterine device (IUD)

Both methods are safe and effective, but they must be used as soon as possible after unprotected sex to maximise their effectiveness.

Q2: How do emergency contraceptive pills work?

Emergency contraceptive pills work by delaying ovulation, preventing sperm from fertilising an egg. They do not cause an abortion and will not be effective if you are already pregnant.

There are two types of morning-after pills available in the UK:

• Levonelle – Contains levonorgestrel and must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.
• ellaOne – Contains ulipristal acetate and can be taken within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex.

Q3: How effective is emergency contraception?

The effectiveness of emergency contraception depends on how soon it is taken after unprotected sex:

• Levonelle is most effective when taken within 12 hours, but can work up to 72 hours after sex.
• ellaOne is more effective than Levonelle and can be taken up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex.
• The copper IUD is the most effective form of emergency contraception and can be fitted up to 5 days after unprotected sex. It also provides long-term contraception.

The sooner you take emergency contraception, the better it works.

Q4: Can emergency contraception be used alongside regular birth control?

Yes, emergency contraception can be used if your regular birth control has failed (e.g., missed pills or a broken condom). However, it should not replace your usual contraceptive method. If you take the morning-after pill while on birth control, continue taking your regular contraceptive as usual, but use additional protection (such as condoms) for seven days if you took ellaOne, or for two days if you took Levonelle.

Q5: Where can I get emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is available from multiple sources in the UK, including:

• Pharmacies (some offer free NHS access for eligible individuals)
• GP surgeries
• NHS sexual health clinics
• NHS walk-in centres
• Online pharmacies (for private purchases)

Q6: Does emergency contraception have side effects?

Emergency contraceptive pills are generally safe, but some people may experience mild side effects, including:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Changes to the timing of your next period (it may be earlier or later than usual)

If you vomit within three hours of taking the pill, you may need to take another dose or use an alternative method.

Q7: Can I use emergency contraception more than once?

Yes, emergency contraception can be used more than once in a cycle if necessary, but it should not be relied on as a regular method of birth control. If you find yourself needing emergency contraception frequently, consider discussing long-term contraceptive options with a healthcare professional.

Q8: Will emergency contraception affect my fertility?

No, taking emergency contraception does not have long-term effects on fertility. It only works to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex and does not impact your ability to conceive in the future.

Q9: Can I get emergency contraception in advance?

Yes, if you are concerned about potential contraceptive failure or want peace of mind, you can obtain emergency contraception in advance from:

• Pharmacies (over the counter or online)
• Your GP (on prescription)
• Sexual health clinics (for free in many cases)

Having a morning-after pill on hand can help you act quickly if needed.

Q10: What should I do if emergency contraception fails?

If you have taken emergency contraception and your period is more than 7 days late, or you experience symptoms of pregnancy (such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue), take a pregnancy test and speak to a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Discreet Care

Emergency contraception is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy when used correctly. Understanding your options, how they work, and where to get them is key to making informed choices. If you’re wondering how much are emergency contraceptive pills, remember that they are free on the NHS or available at pharmacies for a reasonable cost.

At Halo Health, we provide expert advice and discreet access to emergency contraception. If you need more information or assistance, contact us today or book a video consultation with our healthcare professionals for personalised guidance.

This blog was written on behalf of Halo Health by Pharmacy Mentor.