Emergency contraception — act quickly, get the right support

What is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is used after unprotected sex, or when regular contraception has failed — for example, if a condom split, you missed pills, or had a patch or ring issue. It is not intended as a routine contraceptive but as a back-up option when something has gone wrong.

There are two main types of emergency contraceptive pill available in the UK: one that should ideally be taken within 72 hours (three days) of unprotected sex, and one that remains effective for up to 120 hours (five days). The sooner either is taken, the better it works. There is also the copper IUD, which can be fitted by a clinician up to five days after unprotected sex and is the most effective option of all — but this requires an in-person appointment.

How does the emergency contraceptive pill work?

Both types of emergency contraceptive pill work primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation. They do not end an established pregnancy and are not effective if ovulation has already occurred. They do not work in the same way as abortion pills and will not affect a pregnancy that has already implanted.

If your BMI is over 26, one type of emergency pill may be less effective than the other. We ask about your weight and height in the consultation so the prescriber can recommend the most appropriate option for you specifically.

How effective is emergency contraception?

Effectiveness depends primarily on how quickly it is taken. One formulation is most effective in the first 12 hours and effectiveness reduces as time passes toward the 72-hour limit. The other remains effective for longer. The copper IUD, fitted by a clinician, is the most effective option at any point within the five-day window.

Emergency contraception is not 100% reliable — it reduces risk substantially but does not guarantee pregnancy will be prevented. If your next period is more than a week late, or if you have symptoms of pregnancy, take a pregnancy test.

Getting emergency contraception through NewGen

If you are within 72 hours of unprotected sex, completing a consultation online and having treatment dispensed the same day is a realistic option if you start now. Beyond 72 hours, the most effective oral option can still be prescribed, but you may also want to consider whether a copper IUD from a sexual-health clinic is the better choice. Our consultation will help you understand your options clearly.

How the online consultation works

The consultation covers when unprotected sex occurred (to confirm we are within the effective window), your weight and height, your regular contraceptive situation, any other medicines you take, and whether you might already be pregnant. It takes around three minutes.

Once the prescriber approves the consultation, we dispatch your order the same working day. For urgent requests, please also consider visiting your local pharmacy in person, a sexual-health clinic, or an NHS walk-in centre — all can provide emergency contraception without a prescription and sometimes faster than postal delivery.

When to see your GP, a sexual-health clinic, or a pharmacist instead

If you are within 72 hours and need treatment urgently, your local pharmacist can supply emergency contraception without a prescription — this may be faster than ordering online. If you are between 72 and 120 hours and considering a copper IUD (the most effective option), contact a sexual-health clinic or your GP urgently as it must be fitted in person. We will always tell you clearly if another route is more appropriate given your circumstances.