Taken as a single pill, emergency hormonal contraception works by stopping a pregnancy before it becomes established by:
Emergency hormonal contraception is not an abortifacient, meaning it will not cause the abortion of a fertilised egg which has already attached itself to the womb; therefore it must be taken within 120 hours of having unprotected sex and ideally within 24 hours when it is most effective.
Speak to the Pharmacist in total confidence
We appreciate the trust our customers place in us when dealing with private and often sensitive healthcare matters. If you need emergency hormonal contraceptive advice you can speak with a Pharmacist, either in the pharmacy, or informally by phone. Direct dial numbers can be found on our website. After a more formal, but discreet and private consultation, within the pharmacy, if it is considered both safe and appropriate, we can provide you with this form of contraception.
We will never ask you about the circumstances which have led to you seeking contraception advice but we will need to ask you some general medical questions to make sure emergency hormonal contraception is suitable for you to take. Emergency hormonal contraception is extremely safe with no serious side effects and if it was to fail, and you become pregnant, it has not been shown to affect the pregnancy or harm the developing baby in anyway.
Remember this form of contraception should not be used on a regular basis as a first choice method of contraception. We stock a full range of contraceptive products and our pharmacy staff can advise you on the many options available to you.