If you've had sex without using a condom or other method of contraception or you think your contraception might have failed (e.g. you forgot to take your pill), you can use emergency contraception to reduce the chance of becoming pregnant.

You have two options, but you must act fast!

Option One: Emergency hormonal contraception (EHC)

The first option is to take the emergency hormonal contraceptive (EHC). This is one pill which must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. However, the sooner it is taken the more likely it is to work. If you take it within 24 hours, it has a 95% chance of working.

You can get EHC free from a number of different services. A health professional will ask you a few questions and check your blood pressure to make sure that it is safe for you - this takes just a few minutes. EHC is suitable for most women.

Young women can get EHC, free, from Fresh clinics (under 25s) and Brook (under 20s)

Women of all ages, including young women, can get free EHC from pharmacies that prescribe emergency contraception, Palatine contraception and sexual health clinics, and most NHS Walk-In Centres

Option Two: IUDs

If you have not been able to take EHC, you might be able to have an Intrauterine Device (IUD) fitted within 5 days of unprotected sex.

The IUD is a small, copper device that is fitted into the womb. It is an effective form of contraception but is not suitable for all women.

You can get an IUD fitted free, from Palatine contraception and sexual health clinics, Fresh clinics (under 25s), and GPs trained to fit implants.