Emergency Contraception
Fast, Effective Support After Unprotected Sex
If you’ve had unprotected sex or your regular contraception has failed (e.g. missed pill, broken condom), emergency contraception offers a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy. The sooner it’s taken, the more effective it will be.
At MediClick Pharmacy, we offer licenced emergency contraceptive treatments available through a quick online consultation with fast, discreet UK delivery — no in-person appointment needed.
Available Treatments at MediClick Pharmacy
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EllaOne (Ulipristal acetate)
£26.99 Add to basket This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Emerres (Levonelle Branded)
£22.49 Add to basket This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Emerres (Levonorgestrel Generic)
£17.99 Add to basket This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
What Is Emergency Contraception?
Emergency contraception is a short-term method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It works by delaying ovulation so that fertilisation is unlikely to occur.
It does not terminate an existing pregnancy, and is most effective when taken as soon as possible after sex.
How Does Emergency Contraception Work?
Emergency contraception works by preventing or delaying ovulation, which stops an egg from being released and fertilised. It does not terminate an existing pregnancy. Treatments like ellaOne (ulipristal acetate) and Levonorgestrel-based pills (e.g. Emerres) are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex — ideally within 12 to 24 hours, and no later than 3 to 5 days depending on the option.
When Might Emergency Contraception Be Needed?
Emergency contraception is used to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. While it is not linked to physical symptoms in the same way as a medical condition, there are specific situations where its use is appropriate.
You may need emergency contraception if:
- You had unprotected sex (no contraception used)
- Your regular contraceptive method failed (e.g. condom broke or slipped)
- You missed one or more contraceptive pills
- You were late having your contraceptive injection or patch change
- You experienced vomiting or severe diarrhoea while on oral contraception (which may reduce its effectiveness)
It’s important to remember that emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse — ideally within 24 hours, and no later than 3 to 5 days, depending on the product.
How to Take Emergency Contraception
- Take one tablet as soon as possible after unprotected sex
- If vomiting occurs within 3 hours, a second dose may be needed
- Regular contraception can be resumed after treatment (timing varies by product)
- Always read the instructions before use
Common Questions About Emergency Contraception
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (such as a split condom or missed pill). It is intended for occasional use and should not replace regular contraception.
What types of emergency contraception are available?
MediClick Pharmacy offers two types of emergency contraceptive pills:
- ellaOne® (Ulipristal acetate): Effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.
- Emerres (Levonorgestrel/Levonelle®): Effective up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex.
The sooner either pill is taken, the more effective it will be.
How effective is emergency contraception?
Both ellaOne® and Levonorgestrel are highly effective when taken promptly after unprotected sex.
- ellaOne® is around 98% effective if taken within 24 hours.
- Levonorgestrel is most effective within the first 12 hours after intercourse.
Emergency contraception is not 100% guaranteed, but it greatly reduces the risk of pregnancy.
When should I take emergency contraception?
Take emergency contraception as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
- ellaOne® can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after.
- Levonorgestrel must be taken within 72 hours (3 days).
The earlier it is taken, the better it works.
Will emergency contraception affect my future fertility?
No, emergency contraception has no long-term effect on fertility. You can become pregnant later in your cycle if you have unprotected sex again.
Can I use emergency contraception more than once?
While you can use emergency contraception more than once if needed, it should not be used as a regular contraceptive method. If you find yourself needing emergency contraception often, consider discussing a long-term contraceptive option with a healthcare provider.
Are there any side effects?
Possible side effects include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Changes to your next period (earlier, later, lighter, or heavier)
If you vomit within 3 hours of taking the pill, you may need to take another dose — contact a healthcare professional for advice.
Dosage Information
We offer two types of emergency contraception:
ellaOne (Ulipristal Acetate 30mg):
- Take 1 tablet within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex.
- Most effective when taken as early as possible.
- Can only be used once per cycle.
- May interact with hormonal contraception — speak to a prescriber if you’re on the pill.
Levonorgestrel (Emerres / Levonelle – 1.5mg):
- Take 1 tablet within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.
- Works best within the first 12 hours.
- Can be used more than once in a cycle, but effectiveness may reduce.
Always follow the instructions provided with your medication and consult a pharmacist or prescriber if you’re unsure which option is most suitable for you.
Possible Side Effects of Emergency Contraception
Common Side Effects
(may affect more than 1 in 10 women):
Headache / Nausea or upset stomach / Abdominal pain or cramps / Irregular or delayed periods / Fatigue or dizziness
Uncommon Side Effects
(may affect up to 1 in 100 women):
Breast tenderness / Vomiting / Mood changes or anxiety / Diarrhoea
Effects on Your Period:
Your next period may arrive earlier or later than expected / Bleeding may be heavier or lighter than usual / If your period is more than 7 days late or unusually light, you should take a pregnancy test
Why Choose MediClick Pharmacy?
- Genuine, UK-licensed emergency contraception
- No face-to-face appointments needed
- Fast, discreet delivery with secure packaging
- UK prescriber reviews every consultation
- Support available if you have any concerns
How It Works
Step - 1
Complete a quick online consultation
Step - 2
Our UK-based prescribers review your application
Step - 3
Once approved, your treatment is dispatched for next-day delivery