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Emergency contraception
1 in 6 Irish people admit to having unprotected sex with a new partner.
Emergency contraception is what can rescue you in a worst case scenario. It can prevent pregnancy when you’ve forgotten to use protection, if something goes wrong with your protection or if you were raped.
Remember emergency contraception does NOT protect against sexually transmitted infections and its effectiveness really does depend on how soon after the unprotected sex it is taken.
What do you need to know?
There are two types of emergency contraception: an emergency pill and the coil or IUD. Emergency pills are usually called the morning after pill. You can take this pill up to three days (72 hours) after sex, but the sooner you take it the better. The morning after pill prevents unwanted pregnancy in 95% of women who take it correctly and as close to the time of the unprotected sex as possible.
If more than 72 hours have passed since the unprotected sex, then the IUD can be used. The IUD is a small device fitted inside a woman's womb by a doctor. You must have it inserted within five days of sex and it must be worn until your next period. If the IUD is fitted correctly it prevents pregnancy 99% of the time. However it’s not really suitable for young women.
When should you take emergency contraception?
- If you had sex without contraception.
- If you were forced to have sex or don’t remember what happened the night before.
- If your condom split or something stopped your contraceptive working.
- If you missed your birth control pills for two days before having sex or were vomiting in the last few days.
Where do you get it?
The morning after pill is available from doctors and health clinics. Phone and check with the doctor in advance, as not all doctors will prescribe emergency contraception.
It is also available over the counter in Boots branches around the country. In order to get it there, you will need to have a private consultation with the pharmacist. It costs €45.
What are the effects?
You might feel sick or dizzy after taking the emergency pill. This is normal, but if you feel sick for more than two hours speak to your doctor. The IUD can cause heavy periods or some blood spotting.
Your periods may be irregular or come earlier or later than normal for three months after taking the morning after pill.
See the help section for supportive information and contacts details of support organisations.
