What to do if you've had unprotected sex
If you have had unprotected penetrative sex or you think that your protection has failed, you can use emergency contraception to prevent you becoming pregnant.
Emergency contraception is either:

• The emergency Contraception pill (also known as the morning after pill) or
  
• The IUD (also known as the coil)
  

Will it prevent getting pregnant?
The emergency contraception pill is most effective if taken within 24 hours, however it can still be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) later.

It is extremely unlikely that pregnancy will occur after having an IUD fitted . An IUD can be fitted up to 120 hours (5 days) later.

How do the pills work?
The emergency contraception stop an egg being released (ovulation) or they may stop a fertilised egg settling in your womb (implanting)

You would be advised not to take alcohol or drugs for 24 hours after taking the emergency pills in case you are sick.

What happens?
You will be given 2 pills (Levonelle) as part of the emergency contraception pill prescription. 1 is to be taken with or after food and another to be taken 12 hours later.

How does the IUD work?
The doctor fits an IUD in your womb. It may stop sperm meeting an egg (fertilisation) or it may stop a fertisilised egg settling in your womb (implanting)

Can I use emergency contraception regularly?
Emergency contraception is not as effective as conventional methods of contraception (ie condoms). It is not recommended for regular use. If you'd like to talk over your contraception options, you can come and talk it over and be given the kind that suits you best at The Place.