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Emergency contraception is a method of preventing pregnancy following unprotected sex, or if the contraception used failed in one way or another – for example, a condom coming off or breaking during sex. Keep reading to learn more about getting the morning after pill in Neath.
There are 2 common types of emergency contraception, which are:
- The emergency contraceptive pill – Levonelle or ellaOne (morning after pill)
- The intrauterine device (IUD or coil)
How does the morning after pill in Neath work?
Levonelle
Levonelle comprises of levonorgestrel, an artificial (synthetic) version of the natural hormone progesterone generated by the ovaries.
Levonelle works by stopping or delaying ovulation (releasing an egg). Nevertheless, you have to take it within 72 hours following unprotected sex for it to prevent pregnancy.
ellaOne
ellaOne comprises ulipristal acetate that stops progesterone from working as usual. It also stops or delays ovulation.
You have to take ellaOne within 120 hours following unprotected sex for it to work.
Who can use the emergency contraception pill?
A good number of women can use emergency contraception pills. It also includes women who aren’t able to use hormonal contraception like the contraceptive patch and combined pill. Girls below the age of 16 can also use the pill.
However, it’s not recommended to use the emergency contraceptive pill if you are allergic to any of its contents, take certain medications, or have severe asthma as they may cause an interaction.
Is the morning after pill in Neath effective?
Even though emergency contraception is regarded as effective, it shouldn’t be used as a reliable method of regular planned contraception. The strength of the progestogen pill decreases gradually hence reducing its effectiveness as time goes by following unprotected sex.
A smiling woman breathing in with open hands
Can men buy the morning after pill in Neath?
No. Only women are allowed to buy the morning after pill. However, you’ll need to complete a suitability questionnaire prior to purchasing it.
Does emergency contraception offer protection against STIs?
No. Emergency contraception is only used to prevent you from getting pregnant. Therefore, it doesn’t offer protection against STIs (sexually transmitted infections), including genital warts, HIV, or chlamydia.
What are the Side effects of using the morning after pill in Neath?
There aren’t long-term or severe side effects of using the emergency contraceptive pill.
However, it can cause:
- Tummy pain
- Headaches
- Irregular periods, which can be more painful than usual, be earlier or later.
- Feeling unwell – seek medical advice if you feel unwell within 3 hours of taking ellaOne or 2 hours of taking Levonelle. You may have to take another dose or have an IUD fitted.
A couple holding each other
Can I get the morning after pill in Neath for free?
You can get the morning after pill for free from the following places. This also applies to those under the age of 16:
- Most pharmacies, including The Health Dispensary
- Contraception clinics
- Genitourinary medicine (GUM) or sexual health clinics
- Some GP surgeries
- Some young people’s clinics
- Most NHS walk-in centres
- Some accident and emergency (A&E) departments
If you’re 16 years old and above, you can purchase the morning after pill from The Health Dispensary today, online or in person.
If you need the Morning After Pill in Neath, Wales then book an appointment with us or speak to a member of our team today. We are here to support you always.
