Emergency contraception (EC) may seem like a great option π¦ΈβοΈ, and sometimes it can be a lifesaver. However, if you take EC and still find yourself pregnant, donβt worry! This can happen more often than most people think. Knowing why it happens and what to do next will be beneficial to you.
As your local NHS pharmacy in London, Saturn Pharmacy has the tools and information to provide clarification on this topic with understanding and no judgement. You are not the first person to experience this, and you wonβt be the last.

Can You Get Pregnant After Emergency Contraception?
Answer: Yes, it is possible to get pregnant after using an emergency contraceptive serviceβbut this doesnβt mean the emergency contraceptive was ineffective, like most people think.
Emergency contraception works by delaying your body’s release of an egg (ovulating). If you have already released the egg (ovulating), then it cannot stop a potential pregnancy from occurring; hence, why timing is everything.
Common Causes of Pregnancy After an Emergency Contraceptive Pill
Pregnancy can still occur under the following circumstances:
Taken too late: Some emergency contraception pills are effective when taken within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, and others can be effective up to 5 days after intercourse; however, the effectiveness will decline as time passes.
Ovulation had already occurred: Emergency contraception cannot reverse ovulation.
Vomiting after taking the pill: Vomiting within 2-3 hours of taking emergency contraception will most likely cause the medication not to be absorbed into your system.
Higher body weight: For some emergency contraception, effectiveness may decrease significantly as you exceed certain body weight thresholds.
Further unprotected intercourse: Subsequent sexual activity after taking emergency contraception will make you susceptible to pregnancy again.
By understanding these reasons, you can eliminate blaming yourself for becoming pregnant due to “bad luck” when it’s actually just biology.
Effects of Emergency Contraceptives: Whatβs Normal?
Usually, the side effects of the emergency contraception pill are minor and will pass with time Some common side effects that are likely to occur are:
- Nausea/Dizziness
- Headache
- Spotting or leading to changes in the next menstrual cycle
- Breast Tenderness
- Fatigue (Yes, you may feel tired even from the pill!)
However, if your period is over seven days late, it is recommended that you take a pregnancy test.
What If You Are Pregnant?
Deep breath, don’t panic. These contraceptive pills will not hurt an already established pregnancy and will not increase the risk of any congenital malformations of your child.
So what now?
* Test your pregnancy.
* Consult with a qualified Health Care Provider.
* Review all your options safely and within a confidential environment.
Saturn Pharmacy can walk you through all these steps privately and professionally and help you obtain the correct NHS services or advice.
Thinking Ahead: Preventing the Stress Next Time
Many people have had to seek out emergency contraception at some point in their lives, but there are options available that provide a holistic approach to your birth control needs.
Saturn Pharmacy is an experienced NHS Pharmacy providing you with emergency contraception advice, the opportunity for NHS Repeat Prescriptions and confidential consultations geared towards your individual circumstances.
At Saturn Pharmacy, you will never have to feel uncomfortable discussing your birth control method, nor will you encounter any prejudices; only friendly practical advice will be offered.

FAQs: Quick Answers Youβll Be Glad You Read
Does the use of emergency contraception lead to infertility?
No way! There is nothing about the use of emergency contraception that has any impact on your fertility after this event.
What level of effectiveness does emergency contraception have?
Emergency contraception has a maximum effectiveness of 95% when taken properly; however, it cannot guarantee that you will not become pregnant.
If I have unprotected intercourse again, should I take another emergency contraception pill?
Yes, you should take another emergency contraception pill after having unprotected sexual intercourse. But you should first speak with a pharmacist for guidance. Repetitive use of emergency contraception during a single menstrual cycle is not recommended.
Is emergency contraception and abortion the same thing?
No, they are not the same. Emergency contraceptives are designed to prevent a woman from becoming pregnant; however, they cannot terminate an existing pregnancy.
Are emergency contraceptive pills available from any NHS pharmacy?
Definitely! Saturn Pharmacy provides confidential access to emergency contraception and advice throughout the UK.
Youβre Not AloneβWeβre Here to Help π
If you have concerns about using an emergency contraceptive pill, would like to know more about its side effects or would like to prepare for an upcoming pregnancy with the safely prescribed repeat prescription through your primary care physician,
β¨ Saturn Pharmacy offers assistance and guidance through consultations with experienced pharmacy staff who will provide honest, non-judgemental answers to your questions.



















