Emergency Contraception – The Sooner, The Better
If you have sex without using contraception, or if there is a risk that your contraception may have failed (e.g. split condom, forgotten a pill), then you can use emergency contraception to prevent a pregnancy.
How do I get emergency contraception in Brighton and Hove?
Emergency contraception is either a pill or a copper intrauterine device (IUD, also known as a copper coil). The pill is sometimes known as the ‘morning after pill’ but this is a bit confusing because it can be taken up to three to five days after unprotected sex depending on the type of pill taken. Emergency contraception should be used as soon as possible after sex to have the best chance of it working.
How to get a copper IUD fitted
A copper IUD is considered the best option for emergency contraception as it can be more effective. If you think you need an emergency copper IUD you can call us on 01273 523 388 to discuss this.
IUD fitting is also available from some GP practices in Brighton and Hove. Please call as soon as you are able to as time can be a limiting factor for having an emergency copper IUD fitted.
Phone line opening times:
Monday | 9.15am to 4.30pm |
Tuesday | 9.15am to 4.30pm |
Wednesday | 12.30pm to 4.30pm |
Thursday | 9.15am to 4.30pm |
Friday | 9.15am to 4.30pm |
*Phone lines are closed on Bank Holidays
How to get emergency contraception pills
Attend one of our walk-in appointments at SHAC Central. These run on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday (10.15am to 5pm) and are filled on a “first come, first served” basis. You may be given a time slot later in the day when you will be asked to return to the clinic.
Emergency contraception pills (also referred to as Emergency hormonal contraception, EHC) are also available from your GP (doctor) for free. You can make an emergency appointment and you do not need to tell the receptionist what you need.
Other ways of getting emergency contraception for under 25s
If you are under 25 you can get emergency contraception pills for free from certain pharmacies in Brighton and Hove. Find your nearest pharmacy using our map of pharmacies offering free EHC to under 25s. We recommend that you call the pharmacy before visiting, to check there is a pharmacist available.