Emergency contraception

Pregnancy prevention following unprotected sex.

A short-term method of contraception.

Emergency contraception pills help to prevent a pregnancy when taken up to five days after unprotected sex.

They work by preventing or delaying the release of an egg from the ovaries. A very popular type of emergency contraception involves taking one or two tablets of a particular hormone. This is sometimes called ‘the morning after pill’ or ‘Plan B’.

An intrauterine device (IUD) can also be used as emergency contraception as it will prevent a fertilised egg from settling in the womb.

You may wish to consider having a supply of emergency contraceptive pill or pills at home so you have them easily available should you need them as they only work within five days of unprotected sex.

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If you're ready to visit us, book an appointment to reduce your waiting time at the clinic.

Once you've filled out the form, a member of the team will be in touch to confirm your appointment.

Book an appointment

If you're starting to use contraception for the first time, or thinking about using a new method, it's a good idea to have a full consultation.

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Find our locations that offer contraception and family planning services.

Frequently asked questions about emergency contraception

What are the benefits of emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception offers the following advantages as a short-term method of contraception:

It is safe for almost all women
Using emergency contraception does not affect long term fertility
It does not cause an abortion
You can use emergency contraception at any time in your menstrual cycle
Emergency contraception is not harmful to your health.

What should I consider when taking emergency contraception?

Things to consider

When deciding if emergency contraception is a method right for you, here are a few quick facts you should consider:

It will only work for sex that occurred in the previous five days
It is not recommended as a regular method of contraception
Unlike condoms, it does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
It may have some side effects, such as bleeding, nausea and fatigue.

Does emergency contraception interact with any other medicines?

Interaction with other medicines

Emergency contraceptives can interfere with other medications.

Depending which brand of emergency contraception you use, there is a small risk it may affect:

Various epilepsy medicines
Various HIV medicines
Various tuberculosis (TB) medicines
Antacid medicines

In all cases, we recommend speaking with us or your healthcare practitioner before taking emergency contraception. You should also read the information leaflet that is supplied with your medicines.