Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your contraceptive method has failed, for example, a condom has split or you’ve missed a pill.
It is normally available from most GP practices and local pharmacies in Derbyshire and Derby, as they are signed up as providers on behalf of Your Sexual Health Matters - Integrated Sexual Health Services.
As guidelines around the COVID-19 virus change and to make sure that you get your emergency contraception quickly, you may wish to contact your local GP practice or local pharmacy ahead of your visit to a GP surgery or pharmacy.
If you are under 16, please contact our information and booking line for free and confidential support and advice on 0800 328 3383.
If you are aged over 16 years old you can now order the emergency contraception pill (‘morning after pill’) online and for free, via our provider SH:24 from the link below:
Order emergency contraception online
Where can I get it?
Find your local pharmacy in Derbyshire providing FREE emergency contraception to everyone in Derbyshire (Levonelle and ellaOne are available FREE up to the age of 24 and payable over the counter if you are aged 25 and over).
Find your local pharmacy in Derby City providing FREE emergency contraception (Levonelle - free under 18's only, otherwise payable over the counter).
What is it?
There are two types of emergency contraception:
- The emergency contraceptive pill (sometimes called the "morning after pill")
- The IUD (intrauterine device, or coil)
Find out more from the FPA video 'Talk Emergency Contraception'
For more information, you can also visit the Emergency Contraception guide from the Family Planning Association.
When should I take it?
The IUD can be inserted into your uterus up to five days after unprotected sex, or up to five days after the earliest time you could have ovulated (released an egg). It may stop an egg from being fertilised or implanting in your womb.
There are two kinds of emergency contraceptive pill. Levonelle has to be taken within 72 hours (three days) of sex, and ellaOne has to be taken within 120 hours (five days) of sex. Both pills work by preventing or delaying ovulation. If you are also taking hormonal contraception (such as the contraceptive pill or patch) you may be able to continuing taking this as normal, but will be advised to use condoms for a 7 day period. You will be offered personal support to understand what’s best for you when you have your assessment (either online or in person).