Emergency contraception can stop you getting pregnant after unprotected sex (sex without contraception or when contraception might have failed).
You need to use emergency contraception within 3 to 5 days of having unprotected sex.
The sooner you use emergency contraception, the more effective it usually is.
There are 2 types of emergency contraception:
- an IUD (intrauterine device) also called a copper coil
- the emergency contraceptive pill (also called the morning after pill)
The IUD is the most effective type of emergency contraception.
Where can I get emergency contraception?
Getting it for free
You can get emergency contraception for free, even if you're under 16, from these places, but they may not all fit the IUD:
- contraception clinics
- sexual health or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics
- some GP surgeries
- some young people's clinics
- minor injuries units
- most pharmacies
- some accident and emergency (A&E) departments (phone first to check)
Find your nearest sexual health clinic
Find your nearest pharmacy
IUD
An IUD can be fitted within 5 days (120 hours) after sex.
It's a small plastic T-shape that a specially trained nurse or doctor can put into your womb.
You need to make an appointment to have an IUD fitted by a nurse or doctor. This is usually done at a sexual health clinic or GP surgery.
An IUD can be left in as your usual method of contraception. It lasts for 5 or 10 years, depending on the type.
Find out about the IUD, including side effects and who can use it.
Emergency contraceptive pill (morning after pill)
There are 2 main types of emergency pill used in the UK:
- levonorgestrel (brands include Levonelle) which you need to take within 3 days (72 hours) after sex
- ulipristal acetate (brands include ellaOne) which you need to take within 5 days (120 hours) after sex
Find out about the emergency pill, including side effects and who can use it.