Finding yourself in a situation where you need emergency contraception can be stressful, and it is completely natural to want clear, accurate information as quickly as possible. The morning after pill is one of the most widely used forms of emergency contraception in the UK, and understanding how it works, when to take it, and what affects its effectiveness can help you make an informed decision with confidence.
At Batley Pharmacy, we understand that access to reliable, non-judgemental advice about emergency contraception matters. Whether you are taking the morning after pill for the first time or simply want to brush up on the facts, this guide covers everything from effectiveness rates and timing windows to side effects and myths that need to be put to rest.
What is the Morning After Pill?
The morning after pill is a form of emergency hormonal contraception taken after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy. It is not the same as the abortion pill, and it does not end an existing pregnancy. Instead, it works primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation, which means that if an egg has not yet been released, sperm cannot fertilise it.
Despite the name, you do not have to take it the morning after. Depending on the type you take, it can be effective for up to three or five days after unprotected sex. However, the sooner it is taken, the better it works, and this principle applies to both types available in the UK.
The morning after pill is intended for emergency use only and should not be relied upon as a regular method of contraception. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and if you are having regular unprotected sex, a longer-term contraceptive method is a much more reliable and appropriate choice.
Types of Morning After Pill: Levonelle and EllaOne
There are two types of morning after pill available in the UK, and understanding the difference between them is important when deciding which one to take.
Levonelle (Levonorgestrel)
Levonelle contains a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone called levonorgestrel. It is taken as a single tablet and must be used within 72 hours (three days) of unprotected sex. Clinical data consistently shows that it is most effective when taken within the first 12 to 24 hours.
Levonorgestrel has been available in the UK since 1984 and is one of the most extensively studied emergency contraceptives in the world.
EllaOne (Ulipristal Acetate)
EllaOne contains ulipristal acetate, a selective progesterone receptor modulator. It can be taken up to 120 hours (five days) after unprotected sex, and crucially, its effectiveness does not decline significantly across that five-day window.
EllaOne is the only branded version of this type of emergency contraceptive available in the UK and requires a pharmacist consultation before it is dispensed.
Morning After Pill Effectiveness Timeline
Morning After Pill Effectiveness: What the Evidence Shows
The headline effectiveness figures for emergency contraceptive pills are reassuring, but they come with important context. Studies estimate that around 1 to 2 women in every 100 who take an emergency contraceptive pill correctly will still become pregnant.
Once an egg has been released, neither pill can prevent fertilisation from occurring. This is why understanding your cycle, while not always straightforward, can be helpful when deciding between the pill and an alternative such as the copper IUD.
Factors That Reduce Effectiveness
Several factors can make the morning after pill less effective. Timing is the most significant, as discussed above. However, the following also reduce how well the pill works:
- Vomiting within two hours of taking the pill
Vomiting within two hours of taking Levonelle, or within three hours of taking ellaOne, may mean the pill has not been absorbed properly. If this happens, you should seek advice immediately, as you may need a replacement dose.
- Body weight and BMI
Body weight and BMI can also play a role. Some research suggests that both types of morning after pill may be less effective in people with a higher BMI. If this is a concern, it is worth speaking to a pharmacist who can advise on the best option for you, or discuss the copper IUD as an alternative.
- Certain medications
Certain medications can interfere with how the pill works. These include some anticonvulsants, HIV treatments, and tuberculosis medications. Always inform your pharmacist of any medications you are taking.
How Soon Should You Take the Morning After Pill?
Morning after pill timing is the biggest determinant of how well it works. For Levonelle specifically, the drop in effectiveness from the first 12 hours to 48 to 72 hours is significant. For ellaOne, effectiveness is maintained more consistently across the five-day window, but earlier is still better.
Here is a simple breakdown of the guidance for morning after pill timing:
- Within 24 hours: Both Levonelle and ellaOne are at their most effective. Take either as soon as you can.
- 24 to 72 hours: Levonelle is still an option, but becoming less effective. EllaOne remains highly effective.
- 72 to 120 hours: Only ellaOne is recommended during this window. Levonelle is not licensed for use beyond 72 hours.
- After 120 hours: Neither pill is effective. The copper IUD is the only remaining emergency contraceptive option and must be fitted by a trained clinician within five days of unprotected sex.
Get confidential, same-day advice and access to NHS emergency contraception from our trained pharmacists.
Side Effects of the Morning After Pill
The morning after pill is generally very well tolerated, and serious side effects are rare. Most people who take it experience no significant problems, but some commonly report mild effects, including;
- Nausea
- Unsettled stomach
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Breast tenderness
- Lower abdominal pain
- Dizziness.
These side effects of the morning after pill are usually short-lived and resolve within a day or two. They do not indicate that the pill has not worked.
What About Bleeding?
Some people experience light spotting or irregular bleeding after taking emergency contraception. This is a common hormonal response and is not harmful. It should not be mistaken for a period.
Your next period may arrive earlier or later than expected. This is also normal following the use of emergency contraception. If your period is more than seven days late, is significantly lighter or heavier than usual, or you experience any other pregnancy symptoms, you should take a pregnancy test. NHS guidance recommends doing a pregnancy test at least 21 days after the unprotected sex took place, even if you have had a bleed.
The morning after pill does not cause an abortion and does not affect your future fertility.
Morning After Pill Myths
Despite being widely used and well-researched, there are several myths surrounding emergency contraception.
Myth: The morning after pill only works if taken the next morning
This is the most common misconception, largely encouraged by the name. Both types of pill can be taken over a window of several days, not just the morning after. That said, time still matters, and acting quickly gives you the best chance of it being effective.
Myth: The morning after pill causes an abortion
This is not correct. Emergency contraceptive pills work by preventing ovulation, which means they prevent fertilisation from occurring in the first place. They do not affect an established pregnancy and are not abortion pills.
Myth: Taking the morning after pill repeatedly damages fertility
There is no clinical evidence to support this. Neither Levonelle nor ellaOne affects long-term fertility. Fertility returns to normal very quickly after taking emergency contraception.
Myth: You cannot take the morning after pill more than once in a cycle
You can take the morning after pill more than once in the same menstrual cycle if necessary. However, it is not designed to be used as a regular contraceptive method, and using it repeatedly in place of ongoing contraception is not recommended.
Myth: The morning after pill protects you for the rest of your cycle
It does not. Emergencycontraception only covers the episode of unprotected sex that preceded it. If you have unprotected sex again after taking the pill, you are at risk of pregnancy again and would need to take it again or use reliable contraception.
Emergency Contraception Available at Batley Pharmacy
Batley Pharmacy offers NHS Emergency Hormonal Contraception as part of a confidential pharmacy service. You do not need an appointment or a GP referral. Our trained pharmacists will ask you a few questions to confirm which type of emergency contraception is most appropriate for you.
This service is available during pharmacy opening hours and is completely confidential. You will be seen in a private consultation area. Speak to a pharmacist today. Fast, confidential, and available without a GP appointment.
Where to Get the Morning After Pill in the UK
Knowing where to get the morning after pill quickly is important, since time is a critical factor in its effectiveness.
In the UK, emergency contraception is available from several sources:
Pharmacies are the most accessible option. Many pharmacies, including Batley Pharmacy offer emergency contraception without a prescription or GP appointment. This is usually the fastest route.
GP surgeries can prescribe emergency contraception, though appointment availability can mean a delay that affects effectiveness.
Sexual health clinics offer emergency contraception for free and can also advise on longer-term contraception and STI testing.
NHS 111 can direct you to your nearest available service if you are unsure where to go.
In England, the morning after pill is available for free from pharmacies that hold an NHS contract for Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC). If your local pharmacy does not offer this NHS service, you can still purchase it privately.
Choosing the Right Contraception
Emergency contraception is a useful safety net, but it is not intended for regular use. If you find yourself relying on it more than once, it may be worth considering a more consistent and reliable form of contraception.
Why Consider Ongoing Contraception?
Ongoing contraception helps reduce the stress of unexpected situations and provides more dependable protection. It can also help you feel more in control of your reproductive health.
- Reduces the need for emergency contraception
- Provides continuous protection
- Helps you plan with confidence
What Are Your Options?
There is a wide range of contraceptive methods available, allowing you to choose what suits your lifestyle and health needs.
- Daily pills (combined and progestogen-only)
- Long-acting options like implants and injections
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs) for long-term protection
We offer tailored advice based on your health and preferences and support in choosing the most suitable option.
Conclusion
The morning after pill is a safe, effective, and accessible form of emergency contraception when used correctly and, most importantly, promptly. They offer strong protection against unintended pregnancy, with ellaOne providing a longer and more consistent window of effectiveness across the full five-day period.
Side effects are typically mild and short-lived. The morning after pill does not affect your future fertility, does not cause an abortion, and can be taken more than once in a cycle if needed.
Batley Pharmacy provides a confidential, no-appointment-needed service. And if you would like to explore longer-term contraceptive options to reduce the likelihood of needing emergency contraception in the future, our team is here to help you.
FAQs
Does the morning after pill make you bleed?
It can cause light spotting or change the timing of your period, but not everyone experiences this. If bleeding is heavy or your period is more than a week late, take a pregnancy test and seek advice.
How long is the morning after pill effective?
Levonelle works for up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. EllaOne remains effective for up to 120 hours (five days). Both work best when taken as soon as possible.
Can you take the morning after pill if you are on the regular contraceptive pill?
Yes, but you should continue taking your regular pill as normal. If you are on the combined pill or progestogen-only pill, your pharmacist may advise on any adjustments needed after taking emergency contraception.
Does the morning after pill protect against STIs?
No. The morning after pill only reduces the risk of pregnancy. It provides no protection against sexually transmitted infections. If you are concerned about STI exposure, speak to a sexual health clinic.
Can you take the morning after pill while breastfeeding?
Levonelle is considered safe to take while breastfeeding. EllaOne is not recommended while breastfeeding. Your pharmacist can advise on the best option for your situation.
Will the morning after pill affect my future fertility?
No. There is no evidence that either type of morning after pill affects long-term fertility. Your fertility returns to normal very quickly after taking it.
Can you buy the morning after pill online?
Some licensed online pharmacies supply the morning after pill, but this option involves a delay in delivery that may reduce effectiveness. In-person access at a pharmacy is always the faster and safer route.
What if I vomit after taking the morning after pill?
If you vomit within two hours of taking Levonelle or within three hours of taking ellaOne, contact a pharmacist as soon as possible, as you may need to take another dose.
Is the morning after pill the same as the abortion pill?
No. The morning after pill prevents pregnancy by delaying ovulation. The abortion pill (mifepristone) ends an existing pregnancy and is an entirely different medication.