Emergency contraception
Ways to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex: the copper coil or a morning-after pill.
What does emergency contraception mean?
Emergency contraception: Ways to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex: the copper coil or a morning-after pill.
How it is used in the Splash library
Can also be used as emergency contraception
From “Coils: copper IUD vs hormonal IUS”You may need condoms, a pregnancy test or emergency contraception.
From “The contraceptive injection”Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or a contraception slip-up.
From “Emergency contraception: your options”You don’t need extra protection or emergency contraception.
From “Missed a pill? Don’t panic”You have needed emergency contraception or a pregnancy test more than once because of what someone else did
From “When someone controls your contraception or pregnancy choices”
Emergency contraception explained
Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after sex without contraception, or when contraception has failed, for example a split condom or missed pills. There are two types: the emergency pill and the copper IUD.
It is not an abortion and won't harm an existing pregnancy. In the UK it is available free from sexual health clinics, most GP surgeries and many pharmacies, including for under-16s, in confidence (NHS).
What's typical
The copper IUD is the most effective option and can be fitted up to 5 days after sex. It can then stay in as ongoing contraception.
The ulipristal pill (ellaOne) can be taken up to 5 days (120 hours) after sex, and the levonorgestrel pill up to 3 days (72 hours). Both work best the sooner they are taken.
The pill can be less effective with a higher body weight or some medicines; a pharmacist can advise. Your next period may come early or late.
When to talk to a GP, nurse or pharmacist
- It has been less than 5 days since sex without contraception and you don't want to be pregnant. Go as soon as you can.
- You vomit within 3 hours of taking the pill: you may need another dose.
- Your next period is more than 7 days late, unusually light or short: take a pregnancy test.
- Sex wasn't something you agreed to. A sexual assault referral centre (SARC) can help, whether or not you report it.
In the UK you can call NHS 111 for advice at any time. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). This is general information, not medical advice.
Where it comes up
Sources
Sources checked October 2026.
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