AKA:
Emergency contraception
What is it?
This is contraception we can take AFTER having sex.
- If a girl's had sex without using contraception, or used a condom but it broke, she can take the morning-after pill up to three days (or 72 hours) afterwards, or have an IUD fitted up to five days afterwards, to stop herself becoming pregnant.
- This kind of contraception is just for emergencies because it's not as reliable as the Pill or condoms and doesn't protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
- If it's over five days since you had unprotected sex, still see your GP or family planning clinic to discuss your options.
How does it work?
Morning-after pills contain hormones to stop ovaries releasing eggs. They also make the womb slippery so fertilised eggs can't stick to it (and can't develop into a baby). The Contraception factfile has info on the IUD.
Where can I get the morning-after pill?
It's free from your GP or family planning clinic (ask for an immediate appointment). Or over 16s can buy it from most chemists for about £25, or from your local Marie Stopes Centre, usually for less. Some chemists may even provide free morning-after pills, paid for by the NHS. Ask your pharmacist.
How do I take the morning-after pill?
Gulp it down. As soon as possible.
Nowadays, most of us only need to take one tablet. Rather than a second, identical tablet 12 hours later. But ask the chemist or doctor and follow the instructions.
Will I need a check-up afterwards?
You don't need to go back to your doctor or family planning clinic unless you think you might be pregnant (for example, if your period is late or shorter or lighter than usual). The morning-after pill isn't 100% effective, so it's possible. Bear in mind that the hormones in this pill can make your next period different. So don't panic - you may not be pregnant!
Most importantly, get yourself fixed up with some regular contraception to avoid needing the morning-after pill again.
Further help and advice
-
Type in your postcode and find help in your area at ruthinking.co.uk
mariestopes.org.uk
fpa.org.uk
brook.org.uk or call 0800 0185 023 (free)
bbc.co.uk/health/sex/
Written by Dr Melissa Sayer
Last updated 17th June 2007
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Charlotte, 16
I had to take this once, and the people are really friendly and dont judge you no matter what youre age. My friend who was 14 had to take it and they didnt treat her any different. If you need one, dont be embarrassed, they wont be: its completely confidential.
onelife
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