Emergency contraception is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure — but timing is everything. The sooner you act, the more effective it is, with some options working best within 72 hours and others effective for up to five days. There is no need to visit a GP or wait for an appointment, because at Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter, our trained pharmacists can provide confidential advice and supply emergency contraception quickly and discreetly. Whether you need the emergency contraceptive pill or information about the copper IUD, we are here to help you make the right choice for your body and your circumstances — without judgement, and without delay.
Our pharmacists are available to provide fast, confidential advice when you need it most. Book a consultation with our team today.
Key Takeaways
✔ Emergency contraception is not the same as an abortion — it prevents pregnancy from occurring in the first place.
✔ The emergency contraceptive pill is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
✔ There are two main types of emergency contraception: the pill (levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate) and the copper IUD.
✔ The copper IUD is the most effective form of emergency contraception, working up to five days after unprotected sex.
✔ Emergency contraception is available without a prescription from our pharmacy in Exeter — no GP appointment needed.
✔ Our pharmacists provide confidential, non-judgemental support to help you choose the right option for your needs.
A Guide to Your Emergency Contraception Options
There are two main forms of emergency contraception available in the UK: the emergency contraceptive pill and the copper intrauterine device (IUD). Both work by preventing fertilisation or implantation of an egg, and neither will terminate an existing pregnancy. Understanding the difference between them — and which is most suitable for you — is key to making an informed decision in what can be a stressful situation.
The emergency contraceptive pill comes in two forms: levonorgestrel (often known by brand names such as Levonelle) and ulipristal acetate (ellaOne). Both are taken orally and are available from our pharmacy without a prescription. The copper IUD, meanwhile, is a small device fitted by a healthcare professional and is the most reliable form of emergency contraception currently available. Our team can advise you on all of these options and help you access the right care quickly.
How Effective is Emergency Contraception?
Effectiveness varies depending on which method you choose and how soon you use it. The table below provides a clear comparison to help you understand your options at a glance:
| Method | Time Window | Effectiveness | Available From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Levonorgestrel pill (e.g. Levonelle) | Within 72 hours (3 days) | Up to 95% if taken within 24 hrs | Pharmacy (no prescription) |
| Ulipristal acetate pill (ellaOne) | Within 120 hours (5 days) | Up to 98% within 24 hrs | Pharmacy (no prescription) |
| Copper IUD | Within 120 hours (5 days) | Over 99% | GP or sexual health clinic |
As the table shows, the copper IUD is the most effective option by a significant margin. However, the emergency contraceptive pill is a highly effective and far more accessible alternative, particularly if time is of the essence. The most important thing is to act as quickly as possible — effectiveness decreases with every passing hour.
Don’t delay — the sooner you act, the more effective your options will be. Call us to get advice from our team.
What to Expect When You Visit Us
We understand that coming to a pharmacy for emergency contraception can feel daunting, but we want to assure you that our team handles every consultation with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism. You will be seen privately in our consultation room, where our pharmacist will ask a few brief questions to help determine which option is most appropriate for you. There is no need to feel embarrassed or anxious — our pharmacists are trained to provide non-judgemental support, and your confidentiality is our absolute priority.
During your consultation, your pharmacist will discuss your medical history, any medications you are currently taking, and the circumstances of your situation to ensure the safest and most effective option is recommended. In most cases, you will be able to leave with the emergency contraceptive pill on the same visit. If the copper IUD is recommended, we will help you access this through the appropriate referral pathway as quickly as possible.
Emergency Contraception and Ongoing Contraception
It is worth noting that emergency contraception is not intended to be used as a regular method of birth control. If you find yourself frequently relying on it, it may be a good time to speak with a healthcare professional about longer-term contraceptive options that better suit your lifestyle. Our pharmacists are happy to have that conversation with you too, and can signpost you to the most appropriate services in Exeter.
Contact us to book a consultation and take control of your contraception with guidance from our experienced pharmacists.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know that questions and concerns can arise when it comes to emergency contraception. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our patients in Exeter.
Will the emergency contraceptive pill affect my future fertility?
No, taking the emergency contraceptive pill will not affect your long-term fertility or your ability to conceive in the future. It works by temporarily delaying or preventing ovulation and has no lasting impact on your reproductive system.
Can I take the emergency contraceptive pill if I am already on hormonal contraception?
If you are already taking hormonal contraception and have missed a dose or experienced a failure, it is still possible to take emergency contraception — but the right option depends on your individual circumstances. Our pharmacist will be able to advise you based on your current medication and situation.
Does emergency contraception protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
No, emergency contraception does not provide any protection against STIs. If you are concerned about potential STI exposure, we recommend visiting a sexual health clinic for appropriate testing and advice.
Are there any side effects from taking the emergency contraceptive pill?
Some people experience mild side effects such as nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, or irregular bleeding after taking the emergency contraceptive pill. These are usually short-lived and resolve on their own within a few days.
What if I vomit after taking the emergency contraceptive pill?
If you vomit within two to three hours of taking the pill, it may not have been fully absorbed and you should seek further advice as soon as possible. Contact our pharmacy or NHS 111, and a replacement dose may be recommended.
Is emergency contraception free from the pharmacy?
The emergency contraceptive pill is available free of charge from some pharmacies under NHS schemes, depending on your location and circumstances — please ask our team about availability when you visit. It is also available to purchase privately if preferred, and our pharmacist can discuss the costs involved.
Emergency Contraception Without the Wait
Our team at Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter is dedicated to making sure you receive the right advice, quickly and in complete confidence. Emergency contraception is a time-sensitive matter, and our experienced pharmacists are on hand to ensure you receive the right support without unnecessary delay or judgement. From answering your initial questions to providing same-day treatment, our experienced team is ready to support you every step of the way. Your health, your choices, and your peace of mind matter to us — don’t wait. Book now and take the first step towards accessing emergency contraception today, our team is ready and waiting.
