What is the Morning After Pill?
The Emergency Contraceptive also known as the morning after pill is a tablet that you take after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It can also be used if regular contraception has failed, or you are worried that your regular contraception may have not been used or taken correctly. If you think you may need emergency contraception it is always important to act quickly and consult your pharmacist for advice. It is important to note that is most effective when taken as close as possible to the event.
The morning after pill is available to you directly from your local pharmacy, without a prescription, subject to consultation with the pharmacist on duty.
The emergency contraception service is available free of charge to medical card holders when a valid card is presented. For other customers, a fee will be charged, depending on the outcome of the consultation and the type of emergency contraception supplied.
Some of the reasons supply of the Morning After Pill may not be possible:
- Too much time has passed since the unprotected sex for the medicine to be effective (max time is 120 hours)
- You may be taking other medications or have certain medical conditions that make it unsafe for you to use emergency contraception.
- You are allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication.
- You have already taken an emergency contraceptive pill within this cycle.
- Your last period was irregular in some way.
Our pharmacists will determine if the morning after pill is suitable for you. If for any reason the pill is not suitable, there may be further options available. Our pharmacists are trained to be able to direct you to the correct source for help or support.
How effective is the Morning After Pill?
Morning after pills are not 100% effective. This is because there is a chance that you may have already ovulated before you took the emergency contraceptive pill. Taking emergency contraceptive pills as soon as possible after unprotected sex gives the best chance of success.
Sexually Transmitted Infection
It is important to note that emergency contraception does not protect you from sexually transmitted infection. It is important to speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions or concerns about STIs.
Further information can be found at https://www.sexualwellbeing.ie/