If contraception has failed or you have had unprotected sex, emergency contraception (the “morning-after pill”) can reduce the chance of pregnancy. It is available from our pharmacy after a short, private and confidential chat with the pharmacist — no appointment and no GP visit needed.
How does it work?
The morning-after pill mainly works by delaying the release of an egg (ovulation). It is not the same as the abortion pill and it will not affect an existing pregnancy.
There are two types
- The 3-day pill (levonorgestrel). Taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex. It works best the sooner it is taken.
- The 5-day pill (ellaOne / ulipristal acetate). Taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. Depending on where you are in your cycle, this may be the more suitable option.
Both are more effective the sooner they are taken, so it is best not to wait. Our pharmacist will help you choose the right one for your situation.
Things worth knowing
- It does not protect you for the rest of your cycle — only for that episode of unprotected sex.
- Some medicines (and being sick within a few hours of taking it) can affect how well it works. Tell the pharmacist what else you take.
- If your period is more than 7 days late, or is unusually light or short, do a pregnancy test.
- It is a good moment to think about regular contraception — we can point you in the right direction.
How to get it
Call in to Laois Pharmacy or message us. The conversation is private and confidential, and we will guide you through it without judgement.
References
- HSE. Emergency contraception. hse.ie
- HSE Sexual Wellbeing. Your emergency contraception choices. sexualwellbeing.ie
- British National Formulary (BNF), Levonorgestrel and Ulipristal acetate monographs.
General information only, not a substitute for a consultation. Reviewed by the pharmacy team at Laois Pharmacy.
