If you have had unprotected sex or there is a possibility that your contraception may have failed, it may be appropriate for the pharmacist to sell you emergency contraception also known as “the morning after pill”.
Depending on your age, in some pharmacies this service is available free of charge where it is funded locally by the NHS.
It is possible to use emergency contraception up to 5 days after unprotected sex however the sooner you take it the more effective it will be. There are two different medications that can be supplied, both medicines work by delaying or stopping the release of an egg.
Taking emergency contraception can give you a headache or tummy pain and make you feel or be sick. If you are sick within three hours of taking the tablet you must contact your pharmacist, GP or GUM clinic as you may need to take another dose.
Supply of emergency contraception will involve a private consultation with the pharmacist. The pharmacist will ask you a variety of questions including your age, details about your menstrual cycle and medical history. Some of the questions may seem personal but they are essential to ensure the medication is supplied to you safely. Using the information provided the pharmacist will advise you as to the best course of action.
FAQ
Is there a strict time limit for getting the morning-after pill?
You actually have a window of up to 5 days after a contraceptive failure, but honestly, the sooner you act, the better. It’s all about timing—the goal is to hit pause on an egg being released before it’s too late, so every hour really does count for effectiveness.
How does the medication actually prevent a pregnancy?
There are two main types of medicine we use, and they both work by delaying ovulation. If there’s no egg ready for fertilization, then a pregnancy simply can’t start, which is why getting it into your system quickly is so vital.
Will the pharmacist ask me a lot of personal questions?
We do need to have a private, professional chat to make sure the medication is a safe fit for you. Some questions about your cycle or health history might feel a bit personal, but it’s purely to ensure you’re getting the right care for your specific situation.
Do I have to pay for this service at the pharmacy?
That usually depends on your age and how the local NHS funding is set up in our area. In many cases, the service is available free of charge, but we can clarify all those details for you once you’re here in the clinic.
Should I expect any side effects after taking the tablet?
It’s not uncommon to deal with a bit of a headache or some tummy discomfort, and some people do feel a little nauseous. Just a heads-up—if you’re actually sick within three hours of taking it, you’ve got to let us or a doctor know immediately, as you might need a second dose.
Can I just grab this off the shelf like a standard painkiller?
Not exactly; you’ll need a brief consultation with one of our pharmacists first. We’re here to provide professional guidance and make sure the emergency contraception we give you is the most effective choice for your needs.
What if my regular birth control just didn’t work as expected?
That is exactly what this service is here for. If there’s any doubt about your usual method working correctly, it’s always a good idea to seek advice and use emergency protection just to be safe, so please don’t hesitate to come in.
Ready to take the next step?
We understand that needing emergency help can be a stressful experience, but our team at Chertsey Pharmacy provides a calm, private, and entirely non-judgmental environment. You don’t have to navigate these worries alone when professional support and clear advice are just a short visit away. Because timing is everything with emergency care, we’re here to help you get the peace of mind you need without any unnecessary delays.