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Contraception

How soon can I take the morning-after pill?

Take emergency contraception as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Some pills work up to 3 days and others up to 5 days, but effectiveness drops the longer you wait. The copper coil is the most effective option.

Esta información es solo orientativa de carácter general y no constituye un consejo médico. Consulta siempre a un profesional sanitario cualificado para cualquier asunto médico personal. En caso de emergencia, llama al número de emergencias de tu zona.

Emergency contraception is most effective the sooner it is used. There are two main pill types with different time windows, and a copper coil that can be fitted within a few days of unprotected sex and is the most effective emergency option overall. A pharmacist or clinic can tell you which is most suitable based on timing, your weight, current medicines, and whether you are breastfeeding.

Emergency pills work mainly by delaying ovulation; they do not end an existing pregnancy and are not intended as regular contraception. They are safe for most people but are a backup, not a routine method.

If you vomit within a couple of hours of taking the pill, or your period is more than about a week late afterwards, seek advice and take a pregnancy test. Also ask about ongoing contraception and, if relevant, sexually transmitted infection testing.

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