Morning-After Pill — An Emergency Contraception

What Is the Morning-After Pill?

The morning-after pill is a form of emergency contraception that helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It’s safe, effective, and widely available across the UK — including now for free at most pharmacies in England.

What the Morning-After Pill Does

The morning-after pill works by delaying or preventing ovulation — the release of an egg. If there’s no egg available, sperm cannot fertilise anything, meaning pregnancy cannot begin.

It is important to understand that the morning-after pill does not end an existing pregnancy. It is not an abortion pill. It simply prevents pregnancy from starting.

Why It’s Called the “Morning-After” Pill

The name comes from the idea that it should be taken the morning after unprotected sex. Although this was once a useful reminder, it’s now slightly misleading.

You do not need to wait until the next morning — and in fact, you shouldn’t. The pill is most effective the sooner you take it. Modern emergency contraception can still work up to 3 or even 5 days later, depending on the type.

So the term remains for convenience, but timing is flexible — earlier is always better.

Types of Morning-After Pills in the UK

• Levonorgestrel (e.g., Levonelle)
  Works best within 12–24 hours and can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex.
• Ulipristal acetate (ellaOne)
  Effective for up to 120 hours (5 days). Often works better than levonorgestrel, especially if it’s been more than 24 hours.

When Should You Take It?

As soon as possible. Effectiveness decreases the longer you wait. Ideally, take it within the first 24 hours for the best chance of preventing pregnancy.

Where You Can Get It

In the UK, the morning-after pill is available from:

• Pharmacies
• GP surgeries
• Sexual health clinics
• Some A&E departments

In England, it is now free at most high-street pharmacies through the NHS, making access quicker and more convenient than ever.

Is the Morning-After Pill Safe?

Yes. It has been safely used for decades. Most people experience little to no side effects, but some may have mild symptoms such as nausea, tiredness, or temporary changes to their next period.

Final Thoughts

The morning-after pill is a reliable, accessible option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex. While the name suggests urgency the next morning, the key message is to take it as soon as you can. With increasing availability across pharmacies — and free access in England — emergency contraception has become easier and more discreet to obtain for anyone who needs it.

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