The morning after pill is a type of emergency contraception designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. It is commonly used in situations where regular contraception (such as condoms or birth control pills) was not used, or failed (e.g., condom breakage or missed pills). The morning after pill is most effective when taken as soon as
possible after unprotected sex, but it can be taken up to 72 hours (Levonelle) or 5 days (ellaOne) after intercourse, depending on the type of emergency contraception used.
There are two primary types of emergency contraception available in Ireland:
• Levonorgestrel (Levonelle): This is a hormone-based emergency contraceptive that
works by preventing or delaying ovulation. It is available without a prescription in
pharmacies and can be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
• Ulipristal acetate (ellaOne): This is a newer emergency contraceptive that works by inhibiting or delaying ovulation. It is available only with a prescription and can be taken within 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected intercourse.
Both methods are safe, effective, and well-tolerated by most people. However, they should not be used as regular contraception, as there are more reliable and consistent methods of birth
control for ongoing use.

The morning after pill works by preventing or delaying the release of an egg from the ovaries (ovulation). If the egg is not released, it cannot be fertilized by sperm, significantly reducing the risk of pregnancy.

Important Notes:

• If fertilization has already occurred, emergency contraception will not be effective.
• The pill does not affect an existing pregnancy or cause abortion.
• It is an emergency measure, not a substitute for regular contraceptive methods.

For the best chance of preventing pregnancy, the morning after pill should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it will be. Ideally, it should be taken within 12 hours, but it can still be effective for up to 72 hours with Levonorgestrel-based pills or up to 120 hours (5 days) with Ulipristal acetate-based pills.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of emergency contraception decreases over time, so acting quickly is crucial. If you are unsure which type of emergency contraception is best for you or whether you are within the recommended time window, our professional pharmacy team can provide personalized advice and support.

At Wilson's Local Pharmacy, we understand that situations requiring emergency contraception can be stressful. We are here to help you navigate your options with professionalism, compassion, and confidentiality.

Here’s how our morning after pill service works:

1. Consultation and Advice
   Our friendly pharmacists will discuss your specific situation, including the timing of unprotected sex and any other relevant factors. We ensure that all consultations are discreet, private, and supportive. If you are unsure whether emergency contraception is the right option for you, we can guide you through the decision-making process.
2. Dispensing the Morning After Pill
   If you are eligible for emergency contraception, our pharmacy team will provide you with either Levonorgestrel (Levonelle) or Ulipristal acetate (ellaOne), depending on your individual circumstances.
3. Aftercare and Guidance
   After taking the morning after pill, our team will explain what to expect in terms of side effects, potential follow-up actions, and what to do if your period is late. While side effects are rare, they may include nausea, fatigue, or changes in your next menstrual cycle. If you have any concerns or questions after taking the pill, you are welcome to contact us or visit the pharmacy for additional support.
4. Ongoing Contraception Options
   We recommend that you consider a more reliable form of contraception to prevent future emergencies. Our pharmacists can advise on long-term contraceptive options such as the pill, the implant, IUD, or condoms.

The morning after pill is available to individuals who need emergency contraception following unprotected sex. It is a safe and effective option for women of reproductive age, including those who may not have access to regular contraception.

The morning after pill is also available to individuals who have been victims of sexual assault, and our pharmacy team is trained to provide support in such sensitive situations.

However, the morning after pill is not suitable for everyone. Certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or severe asthma, may affect its effectiveness. Additionally, individuals who are already pregnant should not use the morning after pill.

If you are unsure whether the morning after pill is right for you, we encourage you to seek a consultation with our pharmacy team to discuss your specific needs.

Confidentiality: We prioritize your privacy and ensure all consultations and services are handled discreetly. Your health and well-being are our top priority.

Expert Advice: Our qualified pharmacists are trained to provide accurate and helpful information about emergency contraception, helping you make informed decisions.

Accessible Service: We make it easy for you to access emergency contraception when you need it most. Our pharmacy is open at convenient hours to accommodate your schedule.

Timely Support: We understand that time is of the essence when it comes to emergency contraception. Our team works quickly to ensure you receive the right medication in a timely manner.

While the morning after pill is highly effective, it is not guaranteed to work in every situation.

• If you do not get your period within three weeks after taking the morning after pill or experience severe abdominal pain, it is important to take a pregnancy test or see a healthcare professional for further guidance.

If you find yourself frequently needing emergency contraception, we encourage you to explore regular birth control options, which are more reliable and offer long-term protection against unwanted pregnancies.