How Soon Should You Take Emergency Contraception?
If you have had unprotected sex or your contraception has failed, it is important to act quickly. Emergency contraception — often called the morning after pill — can help prevent pregnancy when taken within the correct time frame.
At Biscot Pharmacy, we offer a confidential emergency contraception service in Luton, where our trained pharmacists can advise you on the most suitable option and supply treatment quickly when needed.
The sooner emergency contraception is taken, the more effective it is at preventing pregnancy.
How Emergency Contraception Works
Emergency contraception works mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation, which means the ovary does not release an egg that could be fertilised.
There are two main types of morning after pill available:
Levonelle (levonorgestrel)
ellaOne (ulipristal acetate)
Both are effective options, but they have different time limits and effectiveness depending on when they are taken.
If you need help deciding which option is suitable, you can visit our emergency contraception service in Luton for advice and treatment.
Time Limits for Taking the Morning After Pill
Different types of emergency contraception must be taken within specific time periods after unprotected sex.
Levonelle (Levonorgestrel)
Levonelle should be taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex.
However, it works best when taken within the first 12–24 hours.
The effectiveness decreases the longer you wait, which is why it is important to seek advice as soon as possible.
ellaOne (Ulipristal Acetate)
ellaOne can be taken within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.
It is generally considered more effective than levonorgestrel when taken later in the time window.
If you are unsure which pill is appropriate, our pharmacists can help during a confidential consultation for emergency contraception in Luton.
Why Taking Emergency Contraception Early Is Important
Although the morning after pill works within the time limits above, taking it as soon as possible improves effectiveness.
Benefits of taking it early include:
- Higher effectiveness
- Lower risk of pregnancy
- More treatment options available
- Faster reassurance and support
If you think you may need emergency contraception, visiting a local pharmacy providing emergency contraception in Luton can help you receive treatment quickly.
Can You Take Emergency Contraception More Than Once?
Yes, emergency contraception can be used more than once during a menstrual cycle if necessary.
However, it should not be used as a regular contraceptive method.
A pharmacist may also discuss ongoing contraception options to help prevent future emergencies.
If you have questions about which option is best for you, you can speak to a pharmacist at our morning after pill service in Luton for personalised advice.
When Should You Seek Emergency Contraception?
You may need emergency contraception if:
- You had unprotected sex
- A condom broke or slipped
- You missed contraceptive pills
- Your contraception failed
- You are unsure whether protection was used correctly
If any of these situations apply, it is recommended to seek help from a pharmacy providing emergency contraception in Luton as soon as possible.
Where Can You Get Emergency Contraception in Luton?
Emergency contraception is available at pharmacies, sexual health clinics, and some GP surgeries.
At Biscot Pharmacy, we provide a private and judgement-free emergency contraception service in Luton, allowing you to receive treatment quickly without needing a GP appointment.
Our pharmacists can:
- Assess your situation
- Recommend the most appropriate morning after pill
- Provide confidential advice
- Supply treatment quickly
If you need urgent help, visit our emergency contraception clinic in Luton today.
Need Emergency Contraception Today?
If you have had unprotected sex and need urgent advice, the sooner you seek help the better.
At Biscot Pharmacy, our pharmacists offer fast, confidential consultations and can supply the morning after pill in Luton when appropriate.
Visit our page for more information about our emergency contraception service in Luton or speak to a pharmacist today.
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