Emergency contraception

Emergency contraception can stop you getting pregnant after unprotected sex (sex without contraception or when contraception might have failed).

You need to use emergency contraception within 3 to 5 days of having unprotected sex.

The sooner you use emergency contraception, the more effective it usually is.

Emergency contraception is available free of charge from most pharmacy’s, please visit Find Emergency Contraception NHS to find clinics nearby.

Page last reviewed: 04 February 2026
Page created: 04 February 2026