Experienced a slip up with the condom? Or had unprotected sex? Thrown up while taking the Pill? These are just some of the reasons why you should take emergency contraception.

Find out about emergency contraception...

What is emergency contraception?
If you have had unprotected sex (without contraception) or a condom has split or come off, you can take 'emergency contraception' up to 3 days after sex to help avoid pregnancy.

How does it work?
Progestogen-only emergency contraception is a new hormone Pill that works by delaying the release of an egg from the ovary, therefore preventing pregnancy.

Where can I get it?
If you are under 16, you will need to go to your GP or family planning clinic and ask for an immediate appointment. If you are 16 or over, you can get it for £30 from your local Marie Stopes International Centre, for £20 – £25 in most chemists or you can get it free from your GP or family planning clinic.

Is it hard to take?
There is just one pill which you should take as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

Will taking the emergency pill make me sick?
Probably not. About 1 in 20 girls find it makes them sick and dizzy, but it helps to take it with food. If you are sick within two hours, the pill may not have a chance to work so you must contact your GP or chemist to get another dose.

What if I take it and am pregnant, will it harm the baby?
There is no evidence that emergency contraception harms the foetus. Emergency contraception will not work if you are already pregnant.

Does it work better if I take it earlier?
Yes, the sooner you take it, the more efficient it will be.

£30 from your local Marie Stopes International Centre

Worried you've left it too late

Up to 3 days after unprotected sex
Well, you've got longer than you think because it takes three days for an egg to implant itself in the womb. This means you have three days to go to a doctor/clinic and take emergency contraception.

Up to 5 days after unprotected sex
If you haven't been able to get emergency contraception during the three days after unprotected sex, don't despair, you can still seek help. An IUD can be inserted as an emergency method for up to five days after unprotected sex.

Where can I get it from?
Your GP. Family planning clinic. Marie Stopes International Centre. Most chemists.