Emergency Contraception
Smart Protection for Every Stage of Life
Contraception supports women’s health by preventing unplanned pregnancies and giving control over reproductive choices. From pills to IUDs, this guide explains each option and helps you choose what’s best for your lifestyle and future plans.
Book NowWhen Should Emergency Contraception Be Used?
Emergency contraception can be used if:
- You had sex without contraception
- A condom broke or slipped off
- You missed contraceptive pills or took them late
- A patch or ring was not used correctly
- You were sick or had diarrhoea after taking the pill
- You experienced sexual assault
Timing is critical.
Emergency contraception works best when taken as soon as possible after sex. Some options are effective for up to 3 days, others up to 5 days.
Emergency contraception does not end an existing pregnancy and does not protect against STIs.
Available Options
Emergency Contraceptive Pills (Levonelle)
A widely used emergency pill suitable for most people when taken promptly. It works best when used as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
- How it works:
- Delays or prevents ovulation so an egg is not released.
- When to take:
- Within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.
- Effectiveness:
- More effective the sooner it is taken.
Ulipristal Acetate (ellaOne)
A newer emergency pill that remains effective later in the cycle. Often recommended when more time has passed since unprotected sex.
- How it works:
- Delays ovulation even closer to ovulation than levonorgestrel.
- When to take:
- Within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex.
- Effectiveness:
- More effective than levonorgestrel between days 3 and 5.
Copper IUD (Emergency Coil)
The most effective form of emergency contraception available. It provides both immediate and long-term pregnancy protection.
- How it works:
- Creates an environment that prevents fertilisation and implantation.
- When to use:
- Within 5 days of unprotected sex.
- Effectiveness:
- Over 99% effective, the most reliable option.
Safety & Effectiveness
How Effective Is Emergency Contraception?
- Pills are most effective when taken within 24 hours
- ellaOne works later in the cycle than levonorgestrel
- The copper IUD is the most effective option available
Common Side Effects
- Nausea or mild stomach pain
- Headache or tiredness
- Breast tenderness
- Changes to your next period
- Light spotting
If you vomit within 2 hours of taking a pill, another dose may be needed.
When It May Be Less Effective
- If ovulation has already occurred
- Certain medications may interfere
- Higher body weight may reduce effectiveness of some pills
A healthcare professional can help you choose the best option.
When to Seek Help
After Taking Emergency Contraception
- Use condoms until your next period
- Start or resume regular contraception as advised
- Take a pregnancy test if your period is more than 7 days late
When to Seek Medical Advice
- Severe lower abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Heavy bleeding
- Signs of pregnancy
- Ongoing concerns or repeated use
Ongoing Protection
Emergency contraception is not intended for regular use. If you find yourself needing it more than once, a routine contraceptive method may offer better protection.
Ready to Find Your Ideal Contraception?
Book a consultation with our women’s health specialists or explore our contraception services designed for your needs.
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Schedule an appointment with us to ensure we recommend the treatment that is safe and appropriate for you.
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After an assessment, our clinician will provide a personalised plan with expert advice tailored to your specific needs.
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Got Questions?
FAQs
What are emergency contraceptives?
Emergency contraceptives are methods used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. They work by delaying ovulation and do not end an existing pregnancy.
Is emergency contraception safe?
Yes, emergency contraception is safe for most people and has been widely used for many years. Side effects are usually mild and temporary.
What are the side effects of the i-pill?
Common side effects may include nausea, headache, tiredness, breast tenderness or changes to your next period. These effects usually settle within a few days.
How soon should you take emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. It is most effective within 24 hours, though some options work for up to 5 days.
Is 7 days too late to take Plan B?
Yes, Plan B is not effective after 7 days. In some cases, a copper IUD fitted within 5 days of ovulation may still prevent pregnancy, so seek urgent medical advice.