Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception is provided free on the NHS at our pharmacy through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service. It can reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex, or when your usual contraception has failed or been used incorrectly.

Act quickly

Oral emergency contraception works best the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex. Please contact us or come in as soon as you can — do not wait. Different options have different time limits, and the pharmacist will advise on what is suitable for you and how soon it needs to be taken.

What happens at the appointment

The consultation is private and confidential and free. The pharmacist will ask about when unprotected sex happened, your cycle, any medicines you take and your medical history, then discuss the most appropriate option. Where appropriate, oral emergency contraception is supplied free, with no prescription charge.

More than the immediate need

If you would like, the pharmacist can also talk to you about starting ongoing contraception so you are protected going forward, as part of the same NHS service. If a copper coil (the most effective form of emergency contraception) or a sexual health review would be more appropriate, the pharmacist will explain that and direct you to the right service.

Important

This service does not provide emergency contraception in advance, and suitability is always confirmed by the pharmacist. If you have been a victim of assault, the pharmacist can also help you find specialist support.