Emergency Contraception
If you've had unprotected sex for any reason or you suspect your chosen method of contraception has failed, you can still get contraception which can help stop you getting pregnant. An emergency contraceptive is only intended as a backup method when something has gone wrong and is not something you should use regularly.
Levonelle one Step is the only emergency contraceptive pill available to buy over the counter from your pharmacy. It can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure, however the sooner you take it the more effective it is.
Two emergency contraceptive pills can be obtained on prescription from a healthcare professional. One can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected intercourse and the other 120 hours.
Alternatively, you can have an IUD (copper coil) fitted up to 5 days after unprotected sex. The IUD is a small device that is put into a woman's womb by a specially trained doctor or a nurse.
Levonelle One Step can be taken more than once a cycle, but it must be stressed that this should not be relied on as a regular form of contraception, and it is not as effective as other forms of hormonal contraception specifically made for regular use - it is only intended as a back-up.
Yes, you can use Levonelle One Step if something has gone wrong with your usual form of contraception, for example a forgotten pill or split condom.
No. If you are 16 or over you can buy Levonelle One Step in most pharmacies. If you choose to obtain this pill from a pharmacy you will be taken to a confidential consultation space and asked some simple questions. Assuming there are no issues with these questions you will then be able to purchase it.
If you are worried about an unplanned pregnancy and it is more than 72 hours since you last had unprotected sex, see a healthcare professional or visit a family planning clinic as soon as possible.