Morning After Pill - Medi Health Direct (2025)

The morning after pill is a form of emergency contraception designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure. It comes in two main types:

• Levonorgestrel (e.g., Levonelle, Plan B)
  Effective for up to 3 days (72 hours) after unprotected sex.
• Ulipristal acetate (e.g., ellaOne)
  Effective for up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex.

It’s important to note that the morning after pill does not terminate an existing pregnancy.

• Contains synthetic progesterone.
• Delays ovulation by mimicking the natural progesterone surge in your body.
• Prevents the release of an egg, reducing the chance of fertilisation.

• A selective progesterone receptor modulator.
• Blocks progesterone effects and prevents ovulation.
• Reduces uterine lining thickness, making it less likely for a fertilised egg to implant.

Both pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

• Levonorgestrel pills: Take within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.
• Ulipristal acetate pills: Take within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected intercourse.

The sooner you take the pill, the more effective it will be. Delays reduce its efficiency as the likelihood of ovulation increases over time.

While it’s safe to use the morning after pill multiple times, it is not intended as a regular form of contraception. Frequent use may cause menstrual irregularities and is less effective than consistent contraceptive methods like the pill or an IUD.

• If needed twice in one cycle, ensure you use the same type of pill.
• Consider long-term contraceptive options if you find yourself relying on the morning after pill frequently.

• Up to 98% effective when taken within 24 hours.

• Available over-the-counter or online for quick access.

• Requires only a single dose for effective results.

• Reduces the need for more invasive procedures, such as abortions.

The morning after pill is safe for most women, including those sensitive to hormonal contraceptives. However, consult a healthcare professional if you:

• Have severe asthma or liver disease.
• Take medications like sedatives, anti-seizure drugs, or antibiotics that may interfere with their effectiveness.

• After taking Levonorgestrel, resume regular contraception within 12 hours.
• After taking Ulipristal acetate, wait 5 days before continuing hormonal contraceptives.
  Use barrier methods like condoms during this time to ensure protection.

• Inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.
• The most effective emergency contraceptive with less than a 0.1% failure rate.
• Can be left in as a long-term contraceptive method.

• Online: Available at Medihealth Direct with free next-day delivery.
• In-Person: Obtainable at pharmacies, sexual health clinics, and NHS GPs.
  Online orders allow you to buy up to two pills for added convenience and preparedness.