Emergency Hormonal Contraception

You may need emergency contraception (EHC) to prevent an unexpected pregnancy, after unprotected sex or after the failure of a contraceptive method i.e. condom splitting during sex.

EHC is available either over the counter or, to some eligible patients, on the NHS.  After a comprehensive consultation in the privacy of our consultation room, our pharmacist will assess if it is appropriate for you to take and, if it is, which of the available medications will be suitable.

Most EHC should be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex. The sooner you take it after a sexual episode, the higher the chance of the tablet being effective. The tablet does not protect you against pregnancy for the rest of your menstrual cycle and does not give any protection against sexually transmitted diseases.

If more than 72 hours after the sexual episode, there is other EHC available on prescription or via a specialist service can work for up to 120 hours. Our pharmacist can discuss this with you.

For links to the local services available please go to https://www.quadrantpharmacy.co.uk/health-in-herts/