Understanding the Morning After Pill: Your Guide to Emergency Contraception

At Acer Road Pharmacy, we understand that accidents happen, and sometimes you need quick access to emergency contraception. That's why we offer the morning after pill through our accessible pharmacy service in Rendlesham, providing confidential and professional support when you need it most.

What is the Morning After Pill?

The morning after pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a medication taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. Despite its common name, it can actually be effective when taken within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sexual intercourse, though it's most effective when taken as soon as possible.

How Does It Work?

Emergency contraception works primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation, which means an egg won't be released for fertilisation. It's important to understand that the morning after pill:

• Is not an abortion pill

• Won't affect an existing pregnancy

• Won't protect against future unprotected sex

• Doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

When Might You Need Emergency Contraception?

There are several situations where you might consider taking the morning after pill:

• If you've had unprotected sex

• If your regular contraception has failed (e.g., split condom or missed pill)

• If you've been sick within two hours of taking your regular contraceptive pill

• If you've missed several regular contraceptive pills

Getting the Morning After Pill at Acer Road Pharmacy

Our pharmacy offers a confidential consultation service for emergency contraception. Here's what you can expect:

1. A private consultation with our trained pharmacist

2. A brief discussion about your situation and medical history

3. Professional advice about your options

4. The medication, if appropriate

5. Additional advice about ongoing contraception

No appointment is necessary – you can simply walk in during our opening hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30-13:00 and 14:00-17:30).

Important Things to Know

Effectiveness: The sooner you take the morning after pill, the more effective it will be. While it can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, taking it within 12-24 hours gives you the best chance of preventing pregnancy.

Side Effects: Most women tolerate the morning after pill well, but some may experience:

• Mild headaches

• Nausea

• Changes to their next period

• Breast tenderness

• Fatigue

These side effects typically resolve within a few days.

Aftercare and Future Prevention

After taking emergency contraception, it's important to:

• Use additional contraception (like condoms) until your next period

• Consider starting a regular form of contraception

• Get tested for STIs if you've had unprotected sex

• Attend any follow-up appointments recommended by your healthcare provider

Our pharmacy team can provide advice about regular contraception options to help prevent future need for emergency contraception.

Professional Support and Confidentiality

At Acer Road Pharmacy, we understand that seeking emergency contraception can feel daunting. Our experienced healthcare team provides non-judgmental, confidential support in a professional environment. We're here to help you make informed decisions about your sexual health and wellbeing.

For more information or to access this service, visit us at 6 Acer Road, Rendlesham, Suffolk, or call us on 01394 460548. Remember, our pharmacists are always happy to answer any questions you might have about emergency contraception or other sexual health services.

Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personal medical guidance.