Advice

When do I take the morning-after pill? When is too late?

You should take the morning-after pill as soon as possible. The sooner you take it, the more effective it is. The morning-after pill can be up to 98% effective if you take it within 24 hours of protected sex. It can be taken up to five days later, but the effectiveness decreases each day.

EllaOne

EllaOne is the most commonly prescribed, or issued, morning-after pill. It can be up to 98% effective at preventing pregnancy if taken within 24 hours of having unprotected sex. EllaOne can be effective for up to 120 hours (5 days), but can get less effective over time.

Levonorgestrel

Levonorgestrel – sometimes sold as Levonelle or Ezinelle – can be up to 95% effective if you take it within 24 hours of unprotected sex. It can be effective for up to 72 hours (three days), but get less effective each day. Levonorgestrel can be:

  • Up to 95% effective when taken within 24 hours (one day)
  • Up to 85% effective when taken within 48 hours (two days)
  • Up to 58% effective when taken within 72 hours (three days)

Don’t know which one to take? Find out which the best option for you with a quick and easy consultation. Our prescribers can recommend the most appropriate emergency pill and have it sent straight to your door. Even better, if you order before 3pm on a weekday, your prescription can be dispatched on the same day.

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