This website has been developed and fully funded by Bayer plc for a UK audience only.
Disclaimer and side effect reporting information can be found at the bottom of the page.

EMERGENCY

CONTRACEPTION

THE EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVE PILL (MORNING AFTER PILL)

How it works

An emergency pill typically contains hormones that are similar to oral contraceptives, but are much higher dose. It works mainly by stopping or delaying the ovaries from releasing an egg.

When it can be used

All morning after pills work by delaying ovulation.

It is important to take emergency contraception as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

Types

There are 2 types of emergency contraceptive pill both of which can be purchased direct from a pharmacy without a prescription.

pill-icon

THE 3-DAY PILL

The 3-day emergency contraceptive pill contains the hormone progestogen. It works by preventing or delaying your body from ovulating or releasing an egg, thereby preventing an egg and sperm fertilising.

It should be taken as soon as possible and within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex. It is important to remember that the sooner you take it the better it will work.

pill-icon

THE 5-DAY PILL

The 5-day emergency contraceptive pill contains ulipristal. It works by preventing or delaying your body from ovulating or releasing an egg, thereby preventing an egg and sperm fertilising.

It should be taken as soon as possible and within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex. It is important to remember that the sooner you take it the better it will work.

THE IUD (COPPER COIL)

Another method of emergency contraception is the IUD (copper coil). In order for the copper IUD to work as emergency contraception, a doctor or nurse must put it in within 5 days after you have unprotected sex. You can then keep wearing it for up to 5 to 10 years to prevent unintended pregnancy or have it removed. The copper coil is the only emergency contraceptive that can still be effective if you have ovulated.

PP-UN-WHC-GB-0313 July 2025