Emergency contraception

Emergency contraception can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if the contraception you have used has failed (e.g. a missed pill or a split condom).

Types of emergency contraception

There are 2 types of emergency contraception:

1. Emergency contraceptive pill, sometimes known as the “morning after” pill. The two types available are Levonelle and ellaOne
2. Intrauterine device (IUD), commonly known as the “coil”

To be effective, Levonelle needs to be taken within 3 days of unprotected sex and ellaOne needs to be taken within 5 days of unprotected sex. However, the sooner you take it, the more effective it’ll be.

The IUD can be fitted up to 5 days after unprotected sex or up to 5 days after the earliest time you could have ovulated.  It can then be used as ongoing contraception.

Where to get emergency contraception

Levonelle and ellaOne are available free of charge from:

• Hollyfield Contraception and Sexual Health and KU19 Clinics
• Some pharmacies (see below)
• The Wolverton (Kingston’s sexual health clinic)
• Most NHS walk-in centres and minor injuries units
• Most GP surgeries
• Some A&E departments

The IUD is also available free of charge from;

• Hollyfield Contraception & Sexual Health and KU19 Clinics
• The Wolverton (Kingston’s sexual health clinic)
• Many GP surgeries

Levonelle and ellaOne are also available to buy at pharmacies, if you are aged 16 or over. 

Pharmacies that offer free emergency contraception to under 25s

• ACE Pharmacy
• Kingston Pharmacy
• Newman Chemist
• Ritechem Pharmacy

Read more about NHS information about emergency contraception.

Information about emergency contraception for 13 to 19 year olds. If you're under 16 and think you need emergency contraception, please contact one of Kingston’s confidential sexual health services or your GP without delay.