Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill):

The emergency contraceptive pill is commonly termed 'the morning after pill', although this is actually a misnomer as the medication is effective for up to three days or 72 hours following unprotected sexual intercourse. It is, however, most effective when taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex and overall prevents over 85% of expected pregnancies.

Emergency contraception can be obtained from GP surgeries or Family Planning Clinics and, with effect from the 1st of January 2001, it has also been possible to buy it over the counter at pharmacies.

The medication consists of two tablets containing a high dose of the female hormone Progestogen. The first pill should be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, ideally within 24 hours, and the second pill exactly 12 hours later. About one quarter of ladies taking this will experience some nausea and about 5% will actually vomit. If she vomits within 2 hours of taking either pill it will be necessary to seek further treatment as it cannot be assumed that the pill will have been absorbed from the stomach within this period.

It is important to recognise that the emergency contraceptive pill will only help to prevent pregnancy from intercourse happening within 72 hours of taking the first dose; it offers no protection for the rest of that lady's cycle. Taking the emergency contraceptive pill may make the next period come slightly early or slightly late. It is important to seek medical advice if the next period is exceptionally short or light or occurs more than 7 days later than expected.

The emergency contraceptive pill can be used both in those ladies who are currently using no form of contraception or those who are using condoms, and who perhaps had an accident with one of these splitting during intercourse and can also be used in ladies who are taking either the combined or the mini contraceptive pills when these have been missed.

Several types of medication interact with the emergency contraceptive pill including anti epileptic treatments and St. John's Wort. It is important to tell the pharmacist, nurse or doctor if you are taking these or any other medications.

Where unprotected intercourse has occurred more than 72 hours previously, the emergency contraceptive pill will be of no benefit. However, it will usually be possible to fit a coil (see contraceptive choices - intrauterine device) up to at least 5 days following intercourse. This is a very effective form of emergency contraception which can be removed with the next period if the lady so desires or alternatively left in place for future contraception.

Remember: The emergency contraceptive pill is for emergencies! It is not meant to be used as a regular form of contraception, indeed it is significantly less effective than the combined or Progesterone only pill for example. Your Practice Nurse will be pleased to discuss the alternative forms of regular contraception with you (see contraceptive choices).

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice or substituted for professional advice. Always consult your doctor with your questions and concerns.