Emergency Contraception

An IUD (also known as a coil) is a small plastic and copper device that is fitted in your uterus up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected sex or up to five days from the earliest date you could have ovulated.   It is the most effective method of emergency contraception. It can be fitted by your GP or sexual health clinic.  It takes 15 – 20 minutes to fit and fitting can be uncomfortable.

Once fitted you can keep the IUD in for 5-10 years, as a reversible form of contraception (depending on type.)

ellaOne is a pill which contains ulipristal acetate.  It is more effective than Upostelle and Levonelle and can be taken within five days (120 hours) of having unprotected sex and is available from your GP, sexual health clinic, pharmacy and most minor injury units.

Levonelle/Upostelle are pills which contain the hormone levonorgestrel.  It can be taken within three days (72 hours) of having unprotected sex and is available from your GP, sexual health clinic, pharmacy and most minor injury units.

Emergency Contraception is available free, in a non judgemental and confidential environment

• from your GP
• sexual health clinic
• pharmacy
• most minor injury units
• The Corner (under 19)