Emergency contraception is essentially used to avoid pregnancy after having unprotected sex. It comes in handy in case of unfortunate events. For instance, when a condom either breaks or comes off during sex, or when your regular contraception fails to work. Keep reading for more details on how you can get emergency contraception in Bebington & Wirral, and how to get the most out of it.

Emergency contraception comes in two types, namely:

– Emergency contraceptive pill (“morning after” pill) – ellaOne and Levonelle
– Intrauterine device (coil or IUD)

How our emergency contraception in Bebington & Wirral works

Levonelle

Levonelle comprises a synthetic version of progesterone. This is a natural hormone released by the ovaries.

The emergency pill either works by interrupting or delaying the release of an egg (ovulation). However, it’s recommended to use Levonelle within 72 hours after unprotected sex to maximise its effectiveness in stopping the pregnancy. Nonetheless, the pill doesn’t interfere with your usual form of contraception.

ellaOne

ellaOne contains ulipristal acetate, the ingredient that prevents the normal functioning of progesterone. Similar to Levonelle, ellaOne works by interfering with or delaying ovulation. Nevertheless, for it to be effective, ellaOne should be taken within 120 hours (5 days) after having unprotected sex.

You can also take either the Levonelle or ellaOne pill immediately after intercourse. This will give you peace of mind.

Who can use emergency contraception in Bebington & Wirral?

Almost all women can use emergency contraception. This includes women who cannot use hormonal contraception, such as contraceptive patches. Girls below 16 years of age can also use the emergency pill.

However, do not use emergency contraception if you:

– Are allergic to any of its contents
– Have serious asthma
– Are taking some medicines that may react badly with it

Using medications that can react with ellaOne will make it less effective. However, an increased dose of Levonelle can potentially work better in such a situation.

Is the morning after pill effective?

The morning after pill may be very effective in preventing unplanned pregnancy. However, it is not to be used as a regular method of birth control. It’s meant to be used for emergency purposes only. Its contents become less effective if used regularly for a long time.

What happens if you are using regular contraception?

If you are using regular contraception, you may need to use the emergency pill if you:

– Missed taking your regular pill for some reason
– Were late for your contraceptive implant or injection
– Didn’t apply your contraceptive patch or vaginal ring correctly

Are men allowed to buy emergency contraception in Bebington & Wirral?

No. Only women are able to buy emergency contraception. Before purchasing, you’ll however have to fill in a questionnaire to check if it’s suitable for you. Visit our store today to collect your emergency contraception in person.

Can the morning after pill protect me from Sexually Transmitted Infections?

No. Emergency contraception only prevents pregnancy. Therefore, it won’t be able to keep you away from sexually transmitted diseases and infections, for instance, chlamydia, genital warts, or HIV.

Does an emergency contraception pill have side effects?

The emergency contraception pill normally comes with symptoms that are mild and short-term. These side effects include:

– Headaches
– Abdominal pain
– Changes in the timing of your next period
– Your period can be more painful
– Feeling unwell – immediately get in touch with your doctor if you feel sick in 2 hours or less after using Levonelle, or 3 hours after using ellaOne. As a result, you may have to take another dose or get an IUD.

Can you get emergency contraception in Bebington & Wirral for free?

The morning after pill is available for free in the places below. This includes girls who are under 16 years of age. However, the IUD may not be available in some of them.

– Most local pharmacies
– Genitourinary medicine (GUM or sexual health clinics)
– Contraception clinics
– Some clinics for young people
– Certain GP surgeries
– Certain Accident & Emergency departments
– Most NHS walk-in and minor injuries centres

Emergency contraception is currently available in most pharmacies, especially for women who are above 16 years of age.

Can I get the morning after pill in Bury, Greater Manchester in advance?

Yes. You can purchase the morning after pill in advance if you:

– Are not sure about the effectiveness of your regular contraception
– Are going on holiday and are not sure of your plans
– Will be visiting a place with limited access to emergency contraception

For not only details but also professional advice on accessing emergency contraception in advance, get in touch with The Pharmacy Bebington. You can visit us today to get your pill; you don’t need an appointment!

Get in Touch Get The morning After Pill

This blog post was written on behalf of The Pharmacy Bebington by Pharmacy Mentor.