Emergency Contraception
At Rother Care Pharmacy in Stratford-upon-Avon, we understand that sometimes things don’t go to plan. If you’ve had unprotected sex, or your regular contraception hasn’t worked, you may be worried about pregnancy. Our team is here to provide fast, discreet, and professional access to the morning after pill, giving you peace of mind when you need it most.
What is the Morning After Pill?
The morning after pill is a type of emergency contraception that helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (for example, if a condom splits or you forget to take your pill).
It is not an abortion pill and will not affect an existing pregnancy. Instead, it works by delaying ovulation (the release of an egg), meaning sperm cannot fertilise an egg.
Types of Morning After Pill
At Rother Care Pharmacy, we can provide two types of morning after pill:
Levonorgestrel (often branded as Levonelle):
- Works best when taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.
- More effective the sooner it is taken.
Ulipristal Acetate (ellaOne):
- Can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.
- Often more effective than Levonorgestrel, particularly if you are close to ovulation.
- Our pharmacist will advise which option is most suitable for you.
How Effective is the Morning After Pill?
Both options are most effective the sooner you take them.
- Levonorgestrel works best within 24 hours.
- Ulipristal (ellaOne) can work up to 5 days after unprotected sex.
Neither pill is 100% effective, but they significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy.
Who Can Take the Morning After Pill?
Most women can safely take the morning after pill. However, it may not be suitable if you:
- Are taking certain medications (including some epilepsy, HIV, or TB medicines).
- Have severe asthma.
- Are breastfeeding (Ulipristal may not be suitable).
Our pharmacist will carry out a confidential consultation to make sure the morning after pill is safe and appropriate for you.
Possible Side Effects
Like all medicines, the morning after pill can cause side effects in some women, although not everyone experiences them. These may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting or changes to your next period
If you vomit within 3 hours of taking the pill, you may need another dose — our pharmacist will advise you on this.
What to Expect at Rother Care Pharmacy
We know that needing the morning after pill can feel stressful. That’s why our service is designed to be:
Fast – We provide treatment as quickly as possible.
Confidential – Consultations are always private, never overheard.
Friendly & Non-Judgemental – Our pharmacists will never judge your situation.
Professional – You’ll receive expert advice and clear instructions.
Next Steps After the Morning After Pill
Your next period may be slightly earlier, later, or heavier than usual.
If your period is more than 7 days late, or is unusually light or heavy, you should take a pregnancy test.
The morning after pill is not designed for regular contraception. We can also provide advice on ongoing contraceptive options to help you feel more confident and prepared in the future.
Why Choose Rother Care Pharmacy in Stratford-upon-Avon?
Local & accessible – No long waits for GP appointments.
Private consultations – Discreet service in a comfortable environment.
Expert guidance – Trained pharmacists who prioritise your wellbeing.
Convenience – Collect your medication locally, when you need it most.
Get the Morning After Pill Today
If you need the morning after pill, don’t delay. The sooner you take it, the more effective it will be. Visit Rother Care Pharmacy in Stratford-upon-Avon for fast, confidential, and professional emergency contraception.
