Contraception

Emergency Contraception

Emergency Hormonal Contraception is available FREE. Check our list of Tayside-wide Emergency Hormonal Contraception Outlets.

 

There are now 3 types of emergency contraception

a)      Levonelle, one of the hormonal emergency contraception tablets is available free from our Tayside wide emergency hormonal contraception outlets

It works up to 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse

You will be asked to take one pill at the Sexual and Reproductive Health clinic/pharmacist / GP

More effective the sooner it is taken

May affect timing of the next period

b)      ellaOne, the newer hormonal emergency contraception tablet is available from the Sexual and Reproductive Health clinic or from your GP

      It works between 72 and 120 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse

      You will be asked to take one pill at the clinic/surgery

      May affect timing of the next period

c)      Copper IUD

This is the most effective method of emergency contraception

It works up to 120 hours after unprotected sex and is up to 100% effective and can be used as continuing and lasting contraception

It is available from the Sexual and Reproductive Health clinic or your GP

The copper IUD is inserted into your womb in a simple procedure at the clinic/surgery

Considerations:

  • If you are sick within 3 hours then a second dose of the tablets are needed
  • It advisable to have a pregnancy test 3 weeks after taking emergency contraception
  • It is advised to start on an effective method of contraception as soon as possible after taking emergency hormonal contraception.
  • It is advisable to abstain from sexual intercourse until your next period