What is Emergency Hormonal Contraception?
Emergency contraception is a tablet that a woman takes to help prevent pregnancy following unprotected sex. Unprotected sex includes situations where other forms of contraception have failed, such as a condom breaking or coming off during sex. At Heald Green Pharmacy, we offer discreet and professional advice on emergency contraception options to help you make the best decision for your needs.
How Does Emergency Hormonal Contraception Work?
Emergency hormonal contraception works by delaying the release of an egg during the ovulation phase of your menstrual cycle. Ovulation is triggered by rising levels of luteinising hormone (LH) in the body. The higher the LH levels, the less effective emergency contraception becomes. This is why it is important to take the emergency contraceptive pill as soon as possible following unprotected sex for maximum effectiveness.
There are two types of emergency contraceptive pills available:
–> ellaOne – More effective later in the menstrual cycle, as it can still prevent ovulation even when LH levels are higher.
–> Levonorgestrel – Works best when taken earlier but is less effective once LH levels have increased.
Both types should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally on the same day. Emergency contraception must be collected in-store, but you can order and collect your tablets on the same day.
What Are the Side Effects of Taking Emergency Contraception?
Like any medication, emergency contraception can cause side effects, which vary from person to person. The most common side effects include:
–> Irregular bleeding or spotting
–> Nausea
–> Headaches
–> Abdominal or period-like pain
These symptoms are usually short-lived, but if they persist, you should seek medical advice.
Can Men Buy Emergency Contraception?
No, only women can purchase emergency contraception. Before purchasing, you will need to complete a short questionnaire to ensure the treatment is suitable for you. Emergency contraception is only available for in-person collection at one of our stores.
Does Emergency Contraception Protect Against STIs?
No, emergency contraception only helps prevent pregnancy and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or diseases (STDs) such as chlamydia, genital warts, or HIV. To reduce the risk of STIs, you should practice safe sex by using condoms during intercourse.
What Is Unprotected Sex?
Unprotected sex refers to any sexual intercourse where no form of contraception is used, or when contraception fails. This includes instances where:
–> A condom breaks or comes off
–> A woman forgets to take her contraceptive pill
–> No contraception is used at all
While emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy, it does not offer protection against infections or diseases transmitted through sexual contact.
What Is Safe Sex?
Safe sex involves taking precautions to reduce the risk of pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted infections. This includes:
–> Using condoms consistently and correctly
–> Combining barrier methods with other forms of birth control
–> Regular STI testing to ensure you and your partner remain protected
Even if you use hormonal contraception, it is recommended to use condoms to reduce the risk of STIs.
Speak to Our Pharmacist
If you require emergency contraception or have questions about your contraceptive options, contact Heald Green Pharmacy. Our pharmacists provide confidential advice and guidance on choosing the right emergency contraception for your needs.
For more information on emergency contraception, visit the NHS website: NHS Emergency Contraception.
Frequently Asked Questions
Take a look at the questions we get asked the most
To place an order, you need to complete an online risk assessment questionnaire or schedule a video consultation with one of our licensed healthcare professionals. Once your prescription is approved following payment, we’ll then process your order, and you can track it in your dashboard.
Yes, it is completely safe. Our service is regulated, and all prescriptions are reviewed by qualified healthcare professionals. We also ensure that all medications are sourced from reputable suppliers and dispensed by our registered pharmacy.
An online risk assessment is a series of questions designed to evaluate your health condition and determine if the prescribed medication is suitable for you. It’s reviewed by a licensed healthcare professional. In our case, it will be reviewed by our Independent Prescribers.
You will need to provide personal details, medical history, current medications, and specific information related to the health condition for which you are seeking treatment.
