Emergency Contraception - The Contraceptive Pills

If you have had unprotected sex, or have used contraception during sex but fear it has not worked then emergency contraception (EC) can help you to prevent pregnancy. Two of the main emergency contraceptives available are Levonelle and ellaOne. An emergency intrauterine device (IUD) can also be used.

Emergency contraception has come a fair way over the years and the 'window of opportunity' in which you can use pills has increased. The latest pill, ellaOne can be taken for up to 5 days after sex. Levonelle can be taken within 3 days of sex. Levonelle has been on the market for longer and can be purchased from our clinic after free medical consultation.

How does emergency contraception work?

Emergency contraception works by releasing the natural hormone progesterone into the body. Progesterone is a steroid hormone. It is produced in large amounts by the ovaries during pregnancy and prevents a woman's eggs from being fertilised - or if they do become fertilised, it prevents this fertilised egg from implanting in the womb.

Emergency contraception has been said to 'trick' the body into thinking that ovulation has already happened, so that no more eggs are released. It alters the lining of the womb so that the womb is not prepared for a fertilised egg.

When can I take emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is best taken as soon as possible after you have had sex. Levonelle is effective when taken within 3 days of sex. ellaOne is effective within 4 days. But the sooner the better. Levonelle, for instance, is 95% effective if taken within 24 hours, up to 85% within 48 hours, and up to 58% within 72 hours.

How big should the dose be?

All emergency contraception medications are taken as a single tablet.

Emergency contraceptive pills options

ellaOne and Levonelle are among the two most sought after emergency contraceptive pills that are available on the UK drug market.

	ellaOne A single tablet of ellaOne can be consumed orally no later than 120 hours after you have had unprotected sex. ellaOne can be taken either before, during or after a meal. ellaOne is suitable for most women but you should not take this medication if you are already pregnant. It is advisable to only use ellaOne once within every menstrual cycle. Buy ellaOne
	Levonelle Most women can take Levonelle, including women who are breastfeeding and women who cannot use estrogens (the hormone contained in some other contraceptives). Levonelle can affect your next period, causing it to come either a few days early or a few days late. If you vomit within 2 hours of taking Levonelle this may cause the medication to fail. If this happens speak to your doctor or a nurse - they may recommend that you take another dose. You can take Levonelle as many times as you need to, and more than once within any menstrual period. Buy Levonelle

Does emergency contraception have any side effects?

Emergency contraception pills have no serious short- or long-term side effects. But like any medication, morning after pills can cause some minor adverse effects. Possible side effects of ellaOne include abdominal pain, headache, feeling sick, mood swings and menstrual cramps. For Levonelle some women feel sick, dizzy or tired, or may get headaches or abdominal pain. A small number of women will vomit. Speak to your doctor if you are concerned about any emergency contraception side effects.

How do I get hold of emergency contraception?

You can get hold of emergency contraceptive pills at our online clinic with free medical consultation. You can order for the pills anytime from the comfort and privacy of your home and get them delivered right at your doorstep within 1-2 business days. Currently ellaOne is only available on prescription. You can buy ellaOne after acquiring a prescription from one of our specialist doctors.