Yes. Eligible patients can access free emergency contraception through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service. Our trained pharmacists can assess your suitability and provide treatment where appropriate without the need for a GP appointment. The NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service is available to women who require emergency contraception following unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

You should take emergency contraception as soon as possible after unprotected sex. The earlier it is taken, the more effective it is at preventing pregnancy. However, some emergency contraceptive pills can still be effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex.
Levonelle® (levonorgestrel) can usually be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.
EllaOne® (ulipristal acetate) can usually be taken within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex.
Our clinicans will determine which option is most appropriate based on your circumstances.

Yes. As part of the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, our clinicians can discuss regular contraception options and help you access ongoing contraceptive care where appropriate. Our pharmacy can supply free oral contraceptives (combined pill or mini pill) to all eligible women on the NHS without requiring a prescription or GP appointment.

The effectiveness of emergency contraception depends on:
How soon it is taken after unprotected sex.
Where you are in your menstrual cycle.
Which type of emergency contraception is used.
Taking emergency contraception as soon as possible offers the best chance of preventing pregnancy.

Yes. Your information will be handled in accordance with NHS confidentiality and data protection requirements. All consultations for emergency contraception are confidential and conducted in a private consultation room.

No, We can provide emergency contraception without a pre-booked appointment. You can request emergency contraception using our online confidential and secure form. If you request a consultation All consultations for emergency contraception are confidential and conducted in a private consultation room. Your information will be handled in accordance with NHS confidentiality and data protection requirements.

It is recommended that you take a pregnancy test at least 3 weeks after unprotected sex. You should also take a test if your next period is unusually light, significantly delayed, or missed altogether. You will be able to purchase an early detection pregnancy test at the same time as requesting your emergency contraception.

No. Emergency contraception only helps prevent pregnancy and does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you’re concerned about STIs, we can provide additional advice on testing and support services including test kits.

If you vomit shortly after taking emergency contraception, the medication may not have had enough time to be absorbed into your body and may not work effectively.
If you are sick within 3 hours of taking Levonelle®, contact the pharmacy as soon as possible, as you may need another dose.
If you are sick within 3 hours of taking EllaOne®, contact the pharmacy immediately, as you may also require a replacement dose.
Do not wait to see what happens, as emergency contraception becomes less effective the longer treatment is delayed. Our team can advise on the next steps and whether additional emergency contraception is needed.

EllaOne® and Levonelle® are both emergency contraceptive pills, but they contain different active ingredients and work slightly differently.
EllaOne® (ulipristal acetate) can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex and is generally considered the more effective option, particularly between 72 and 120 hours after intercourse.
Levonelle® (levonorgestrel) can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex and works best when taken as soon as possible.
Certain medications and medical conditions can affect which option is suitable. In some circumstances, body weight, BMI, breastfeeding status, or recent use of hormonal contraception may also influence the recommended treatment.
Our clinicians will assess your individual circumstances and advise which emergency contraceptive pill is the most appropriate and effective option for you.