Emergency contraception can be used by a woman to prevent pregnancy after having unprotected sex. There are two methods of emergency contraception:

• the emergency contraceptive pill, also known as the 'morning after' pill, and

• the copper intrauterine device (IUD).

Both of these methods are very effective at preventing pregnancy if they are used soon after having unprotected sex.

Emergency contraceptive pill

The emergency contraceptive pill can be taken up to three days (72 hours) after you have had unprotected sex.

If it is taken within 24 hours of having unprotected sex, the emergency contraceptive pill is effective in preventing 95% of pregnancies. However, the later the emergency contraceptive pill is taken, the lower the success rate.

The emergency contraceptive pill is available free of charge from your GP and most family planning clinics. A number of community pharmacists can also prescribe it to those who are under 18 years of age, including teenagers who are under 16.

If you are over 16 years of age, you can buy the emergency contraceptive pill over-the-counter (OTC) at pharmacies.

The emergency contraceptive pill should not be used as a regular method of contraception.

See Useful links for more information about the emergency contraceptive pill.

Copper intrauterine device (IUD)

The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, plastic and copper device that can be fitted into your womb by a doctor or nurse within five days of having unprotected sex.

The IUD works by stopping sperm from reaching an egg and fertilising it. It is almost 100% effective at preventing pregnancy.

See Useful links for more information and advice about the copper intrauterine device (IUD).