Emergency Contraception
Need emergency contraception today? Start your confidential consultation with i-Prescribe now.
About Emergency Contraception
Sometimes things don’t go to plan – a condom splits, you forget to take your pill, or you have unprotected sex. Emergency contraception is a safe and effective way to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.
At i-Prescribe, we provide confidential online consultations and quick access to the morning-after pill, delivered discreetly to your door.
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception – often called the morning-after pill – is a medicine taken after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible.
There are two types of morning-after pill commonly available in the UK:
Levonorgestrel (Levonelle) – effective up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex.
Ulipristal acetate (ellaOne) – effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.
Treatments
Emergency Contraceptive Treatments
Whether you’re starting contraception for the first time, switching pills, or renewing your prescription, our online pharmacy for contraceptive pills provides fast access, professional advice, and confidential service — all without the need for a GP appointment. Take control of your reproductive health today with a regulated, UK-based online pharmacy you can trust.
More Information
How does it work?
Emergency contraception works mainly by delaying ovulation (the release of an egg). This prevents sperm from fertilising an egg. It will not work if you are already pregnant and does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
When should I take it?
The sooner you take emergency contraception, the more effective it will be.
ellaOne is effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex, while Levonelle is effective up to 3 days after unprotected sex.
If you vomit within 3 hours of taking it, you may need another dose.
Who can use it?
Most women can safely use emergency contraception. However, it may not be suitable if you:
Are taking certain medications that interact with it.
Have severe asthma or liver problems.
Our clinicians will review your online consultation to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for you.
Possible Side Effects
Like all medicines, emergency contraception can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them. Common side effects include:
Headache
Nausea
Tiredness
Changes to your next period (it may be earlier, later, or heavier than usual)
Important to know
- Emergency contraception should not be used as a regular method of contraception.
If your period is more than 7 days late, lighter than usual, or unusually heavy, you should take a pregnancy test.
For ongoing protection, consider starting a regular method of contraception.
FAQ's
Can I take the morning-after pill more than once?
Yes, you can take emergency contraception more than once if needed. However, it is not designed to be used as a regular method of contraception. If you find yourself needing it often, consider starting a regular contraceptive method for ongoing protection.
Does the morning-after pill affect fertility?
No. Emergency contraception does not affect your long-term fertility. Once it leaves your system, your fertility returns to normal.
What if I vomit after taking the morning-after pill?
If you vomit within 3 hours of taking it, the pill may not have been absorbed. You should contact us as you may need another dose.
Will it protect me against STIs?
No. The morning-after pill only helps to prevent pregnancy. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. If you’ve had unprotected sex, you may want to consider STI testing as well.
Which is more effective – Levonelle or ellaOne?
Both are effective, but ellaOne is more effective overall, especially later in the 5-day window. Levonelle is most effective if taken within 12–24 hours.
What if I’m already pregnant?
Emergency contraception will not work if you are already pregnant. It does not cause an abortion and will not harm an existing pregnancy.
Can I use emergency contraception if I’m breastfeeding?
Yes. Levonelle is safe while breastfeeding. If using ellaOne, you should avoid breastfeeding for one week after taking the pill and express/discard milk during this time.