Emergency Contraception
Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC) Service at Neils Pharmacy
Confidential, Quick Access to the Morning-After Pill
At Neils Pharmacy, we provide the National Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC) Service, offering fast, confidential access to the morning-after pill when you need it most.
🚨 Emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy following unprotected sex, contraceptive failure (such as a condom breaking), or missed pills.
You do not need to see your GP or attend a sexual health clinic first — you can attend the pharmacy for a same-day, confidential consultation with our pharmacist.
What Is Emergency Hormonal Contraception?
Emergency hormonal contraception, often referred to as the morning-after pill, is a short-term method used after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy.
There are two main types available:
💊 Levonorgestrel – usually effective if taken within 72 hours (3 days)
💊 Ulipristal acetate – may be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) in some cases
⏱️ Emergency contraception is most effective the sooner it is taken.
How the Service Works at Neils Pharmacy
🔐 Confidential consultation – private discussion about your situation
🩺 Clinical assessment – review of timing, medical history, and suitability
💊 Same-day treatment – supplied if clinically appropriate
📄 Follow-up advice – guidance on use, side effects, and next steps
🏥 You do not need to be registered with a GP to use this service.
Who Can Use This Service?
This service may be suitable if you:
⚠️ Are concerned about pregnancy after unprotected sex
⏳ Need emergency contraception within the recommended time window
🤔 Have experienced contraceptive failure or missed pills
All patients are assessed individually. If treatment is not appropriate, we will explain alternative options and signpost you to appropriate NHS services.
📌 Emergency contraception works best when taken as soon as possible.
Confidential and Supportive Care
🤝 Your consultation is private, respectful, and non-judgemental.
During your visit, we will:
🧠 Explain how emergency contraception works
⏱️ Discuss timing and effectiveness
❓ Answer any questions about safety or side effects
🔒 Ensure your privacy is respected at all times
If needed, we can also signpost you to longer-term contraception services.
Do I Need to Pay?
💷 Eligible patients can receive emergency contraception free of charge on the NHS when supplied as part of the national service.
If a private supply is required, any costs will be clearly explained before treatment.
Other Ways to Access Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception is also available from:
🏥 Sexual health clinics
🩺 GP surgeries
Looking for Ongoing Contraception?
Emergency contraception is for short-term use only.
For ongoing oral contraception via the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service:
Get Help When You Need It
You can visit Neils Pharmacy during opening hours for a confidential consultation.
Our pharmacists are here to provide timely, professional care — with your privacy and dignity always respected.
The Pharmacy First service builds on the NHS Community Pharmacist Consultation Service which has run since October 2019. The consultation service enables patients to be referred into community pharmacy for a minor illness or an urgent repeat medicine supply.