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If you have had sex without using contraception, or think your contraception might have failed, there are two types of emergency contraception you could use, emergency pills or IUD (Intrauterine Device).

Medical and legal opinion are clear that emergency contraception is not the same as an early abortion as the pregnancy is not established until a fertilised egg is implanted in the lining of the womb. It is the process of implanting the egg that emergency contraception prevents therefore prevents the pregnancy from being established at all.

Emergency pills (morning after pill)

The morning after pill is basically a large dose of the contraceptive pill. You take two sets of pills, the first set has to be taken within 72 hours (three days) of having unprotected sex and the second set must be taken 12 hours after that. It is most effective at preventing pregnancy if taken within the first 24 hours after sex. If you do not get a normal period within 3 weeks of taking the morning after pill you should do a pregnancy test to check you are not pregnant. You can get the morning after pill from the Nurse Unit, your doctor, Ashton Community Care Centre or you can buy it over the counter at the chemist for around £20. (see contacts below)

IUD (Intrauterine Device)

A small plastic and copper intrauterine device, usually shaped like a 'T' that is fitted into the uterus by a doctor. This only takes a couple of minutes. It works by stopping sperm meeting an egg, or by stopping an egg settling in the womb. It works from the moment it is placed in the uterus and can stay in place for five years. Some IUD's can stay in place for eight years. It can be used as an emergency method of contraception within five days of unprotected intercourse or five days after expected ovulation. It is unsuitable for women who have more than one sexual partner as this can increase the risk of infection. IUD's may cause periods to be heavier and more painful. The doctor who fits any intrauterine device should show you how to check the IUD by feeling for the threads. The IUD offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections and HIV.

For further information

To find out more about any type of Contraception or to obtain emergency contraception consult your doctor or the Nurses unit. You can call them on ext 94737 or drop into the clinic, which can be found through the security reception lodge (Opposite the chaplaincy centre). It is open 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, during term time or at weekends during vacation periods from 9am-5pm. The Nurses unit is there to provide a confidential, non-judgemental service.

You can contact the pharmacy ext.94598 or drop into Boots the chemist in town.

You can contact any Brook Advisory Service through www.brook.org.uk

You can contact the local contraceptive clinic at Ashton Community Centre on 01524 387401.

Or you can call the national 'contraceptive service helpline' on 020 7837 4044.