Emergency Contraception
If you have had unprotected intercourse (if you have had sex without a condom) and are worried you might become pregnant then you should take emergency contraception (morning after pill). You have 72 hours to take the tablet after the event , but the earlier you take it the better. Pregnancy can still occur after taking this pill, as it is not 100% reliable. The other option is to have an emergency intra uterine coil, this has a failure rate of no greater that 1%, which can be fitted in the first 5 days.
Emergency contraception may not prevent an ectopic pregnancy. This is when the pregnancy starts to develop in the tube to one side of the uterus. If you period is late you should do a home pregnancy test, or if you having abdominal pain or strange bleeding you should see a doctor to rule out an ectopic pregnancy.
You can get a prescription from a doctor for the “morning after pill” and take it to the chemist, or go directly to the chemist without a prescription - either way it is free.
If you are between 13 and 19 you can obtain emergency contraception directly from the chemist free of charge, please ask for a private word with the Pharmacist.
If you are ringing for an appointment please tell the receptionist that you need an urgent appointment that day for a personal matter. Please ring from 8.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday. The local chemist in Bellingham is open until 17.30 and Saturday morning 9 till 12.30. If you need emergency contraception over the weekend please call NHS 111.
Northumberland Sexual Health Service
Clinics and free confidential advice on all aspects of sexual health for everyone:
- Looking for contraception?
- Need some advice on sexual health?
- Worried you may have a sexually transmitted infection?
Clinics on weekdays and Saturdays in over 30 venues throughout Northumberland, including health centres, hospitals, GP surgeries, schools and colleges.
For confidential help and advice call 01670 51 51 51
STI home testing a4 poster.pdf