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Brook Blackburn with Darwen
If you’ve had vaginal sex without using a condom, or your contraceptive method failed (e.g. you missed a pill or a condom split) you may be able to prevent pregnancy by using emergency contraception, also known as the morning after pill or the copper coil, within five days.
Emergency contraception is most effective if you take it as early as possible.
On this page
Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy. There are two types of emergency contraception:
The method you use depends on your preference and your risk of pregnancy. Emergency contraception is most effective if you take it as early as possible. Calculate your risk of pregnancy using this tool by answering a few questions. You can then take this information with you when you see a healthcare professional.
If you have had unprotected sex or your method failed, you also need to consider STIs.
If you are 16 or over, you can order the emergency hormonal contraception (the “morning after pill”) online from SH:24 and receive it directly to your home or another location of your choice. This service is free for residents of Blackburn with Darwen.
If you are under 16, want to discuss your options for emergency contraception or think the copper coil is your best option, phone the clinic on on 01254 268 700 as soon as possible.
Our service is confidential and non-judgmental. Our friendly staff will help you decide on the best option for you.
When you access emergency contraception from Brook Blackburn, our staff will always discuss and offer an ongoing method of contraception as well as tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Emergency contraception is also available for free at pharmacies without a prescription or appointment.
For the copper coil, you can contact your GP surgery and most sexual health clinics.
You can use Brook’s Find a Service Tool to find other emergency contraception providers near you.
A copper coil can sometimes work up to 5 days after you had vaginal sex without contraception, depending on your menstrual cycle. So if it’s been 5-7 days, it’s still worth phoning as soon as possible.
If it’s been more than a week since you had vaginal sex without contraception, it’s best to wait until three weeks after and then take a pregnancy test. We can support you with pregnancy testing and talking through your options.