Emergency contraception

You can use emergency contraception (morning after pill) if you’ve had unprotected sex (sex without a condom/contraception) or the condom split in the last 5 days (120 hours)

The sooner you take emergency contraception the better.
What is emergency contraception?

The most commonly used type of emergency contraception is a pill which is most effective if taken within 72 hours (3 days). This is available free of charge from most pharmacies. You should phone first to check.

There is another type of emergency contraception pill called Ella One this can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. This is available free of charge from most pharmacies, you should phone first to check. This method is also available free from your GP (family doctor) and sexual health clinics.

Alternatively you can have an emergency coil fitted up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. This service is available free from general practice and sexual health clinics.

What if it's been more than 72 hours?

You can still get emergency contraception up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex from most pharmacies, a GP or a sexual health clinic. Please phone to check.

If it has been more than 120 hours contact the sexual heath clinic to discuss your options. Phone 0300 300 2016

Where can I get it?

If you’ve had unprotected sex within 120 hours (5 days) you can get free emergency contraception from most pharmacies. There may be occasion when the pharmacist is not available, please telephone to check.

This service is confidential and available to women of all ages including young people under 16.

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Anything else I need to know?

If you've had unprotected sex or the condom failed it is really important to also consider your risk for sexually transmitted infections and to think about your long-term contraception needs.

If you are under 25 you can pick up free condoms from pharmacies providing emergency contraception in Hampshire. Just ask in pharmacy for these services. You can also order free condoms or a free chlamydia test kit online from Let's Talk about It.

Free condoms
"About last night" video

Watch the short video about Emergency Hormonal Contraception from Wessex AHSN Limited.