Fast and Confidential Emergency Hormonal Contraception
Need the Morning After Pill? Fast, Confidential Emergency Contraception
Had a condom split, missed a pill, or just had an accident? It happens, and the sooner you act, the better your options. At S&S Chemists, our pharmacists offer a fast, private consultation for emergency hormonal contraception. You can speak to one of our pharmacists without needing to book a GP appointment, so you can get advice and treatment as quickly as possible.
What Is Emergency Contraception?
Often called the morning after pill, emergency hormonal contraception is used after unprotected sex to help prevent pregnancy. It works by delaying or preventing ovulation, so it isn’t the same as the abortion pill and won’t end an existing pregnancy. The sooner you take it, the better it works, although depending on the type of pill, it may still be effective up to five days after unprotected sex. It’s not meant as your everyday method of contraception, but as a backup for when something’s gone wrong, such as a split condom or a missed pill.
Levonelle or ellaOne? Here’s the Difference
Two emergency contraceptive pills are available without a prescription in the UK. Levonelle needs to be taken within 72 hours, or three days, of unprotected sex, while ellaOne has a longer window, up to 120 hours, or five days. Neither pill protects against sexually transmitted infections, and each works slightly differently. Your pharmacist will recommend the most suitable option after considering factors such as how long ago you had unprotected sex, your weight and any medicines you’re taking.
Who Can Use Emergency Contraception?
Most people can take emergency contraception, including those who can’t normally use hormonal methods like the combined pill. Girls under 16 can also access it, though our pharmacist will offer a little extra support and guidance during the consultation. If you’re breastfeeding, Levonelle is generally fine to take, but you’ll need to pause breastfeeding for a week after ellaOne, so let your pharmacist know beforehand.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Like any medicine, emergency contraception can cause mild side effects such as nausea, tiredness, headaches or a change to your next period’s timing. These usually pass quickly and aren’t a cause for concern. If you’re sick within two hours of taking Levonelle, or three hours of taking ellaOne, it may not have worked properly, so come back and see us as you may need another dose.
How the Consultation Works
Pop into one of our branches and ask to speak with a pharmacist. We’ll ask a few short, confidential questions to check which pill is suitable for you, talk through any risks and go through pricing before anything is supplied. If emergency contraception isn’t the right fit, we’ll happily point you towards another option, such as an IUD fitting through your GP or a sexual health clinic.
Ready to Get Started?
Emergency contraception works best when it’s used sparingly and quickly, so try not to leave it until the last minute. If you think you need it, don’t wait, speak to our team today.
Not sure which pill is right for you, or want to know more about cost and availability? If you’re in Hillside, Harrow Road or nearby areas, including Ealing, Acton, Notting Hill, Harlesden, Harrow, Wembley, Neasden and Cricklewood, you can access confidential advice and support with emergency contraception close to home. Our pharmacy team can talk you through your options and help you decide what is suitable for you.
Contact us for more information, or book an appointment online.