Urgent Help

Need emergency contraception after unprotected sex?

You may want to speak someone about the morning after pill if you have had;

  • unprotected sex 
  • contraception that has failed 

(The morning after pill is also known as emergency hormone contraception).

There are two oral tablets you can take:

  • Levonorgestrel or Levonelle – can be taken up to 3 days after unprotected sex
  • Ulipristal acetate or ellaOne – can be taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex

Both of these tablets work by preventing or delaying ovulation.

Another form of emergency contraception is the IUD Coil, otherwise known as the copper coil. This is a small device that is fitted into your uterus by a trained doctor or nurse. This can be fitted up to 5 days after unprotected sex.  The IUD coil is a method of Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC). This means that once you have it fitted, it can last up to 5-10 years. The emergency IUD coil is the most effective type of emergency contraception.

You can  get the morning after pill free from local pharmacies, GPs and Sexual Health clinics. For those at school or college you can also visit your school nurse. An emergency contraceptive pill needs to be taken as soon as possible after sex to have the best chance of working. If you would like the emergency coil instead, you can access the coil from GPs and sexual health clinics.

To find your local sexual health clinic, visit www.icash.nhs.uk 

Alternatively, contact your GP or find your closest pharmacy by visiting the NHS 'Find and Pharmacy' page and typing in your town or postcode.

If you are at school or college and would like to speak to your school nurse about emergency contraception you can text the school nursing chat health service on 07507 333356. 

Worried you have been sexually assaulted?

If you have been sexually assaulted or raped it is important you seek help straight away. The Ferns is a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) offering medical and emotional support. The Ferns is there to provide the support you need and respect your wishes.

Contact details for The Ferns:

Some further support and links:

If you want to report the assault or are in immediate danger:

- Call the local police or dial 999

'Report, Remove' images online

Childline have put together a webpage on a new tool named “Report, Remove” aimed at any young people who have had nude or sexual images shared of them online.

For further information please follow this link;  Report Remove Support

 

Page reviewed and updated September 2021. Next Review: November 2021