Emergency Contraception

If you think you might need emergency contraception because you have had unprotected sex or your contraceptive method has let you down then phone us on 0131 536 1070 Monday to Friday between 9am and 3pm or book a call back appointment online. 

At other times of day, at weekends and on public holidays, you can phone NHS 24 or visit your local ‘out of hours’ pharmacy.

The sooner you use emergency contraception the more effective it is – so don’t delay. 

There are three types of emergency contraception:

The copper intra-uterine device (IUD) is the most effective method. It is a small device which is inserted into your womb and can be used for emergency contraception up to five days (or more in some cases) after unprotected sex. If an emergency copper IUD is inserted after unprotected sex, it is extremely unlikely that you will get pregnant.  Once it is fitted it can be kept as your ongoing method of contraception if you want, or removed after your next period. For more information about the IUD please have a look at our film.

The copper IUD is available from most Sexual Health Clinics, and some GPs.

EllaOne® is an emergency contraceptive pill which can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of an unplanned pregnancy.  It should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex to have the best chance of preventing pregnancy.  EllaOne is available from most pharmacies, Sexual Health Clinics and GPs.

The levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive pill (eg Levonelle®) can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of an unplanned pregnancy. However, it works best if it is taken as soon as possible.  This is available free from most pharmacies, Sexual Health Clinics, and GPs.

None of these methods causes abortion – they simply help prevent pregnancy happening.