Advice on emergency contraception

Accidents and mistakes happen in all areas of life – including the bedroom! When they do, it’s important not to get weighed down by them but to quickly take steps to rectify the situation.

If your contraception fails you or if you forget to take it and you have unprotected sex, you will need to take an emergency contraceptive (‘morning-after pill’) as soon as possible. Emergency contraception and advice is available from your local GP or family planning centre. Alternatively, you can visit your local pharmacy where it is available over the counter although there will be a charge.

Marie Stopes International provides expert sexual and reproductive health services and advice. For more information on contraception including emergency contraception call +44 (0)845 300 80 90 or visit www.mariestopes.org.uk

If you’re not sure that you are using the right contraception for you or would like to find out more information about the full range of options available, visit www.contraception.co.uk. There, you can find comprehensive advice and information that can help you choose a method that suits your current lifestyle, along with discussion with your health care professional.

For further advice and help about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) you can visit your local GP or go to your local GUM (genito-urinary medicine) clinic. You can find the one closest to you by visiting www.bashh.org 

For more information about STIs visit
www.nhs.uk/Livewell/sexandyoungpeople