Menu Home > More services > Emergency contraception EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION If you’ve had vaginal sex without using a condom, or your contraceptive method failed (i.e. you missed a pill or a condom split) you may be able to prevent pregnancy by using emergency contraception within the first five days. There are two types of emergency contraception: the emergency hormonal contraception (sometimes called the morning after pill or emergency contraceptive pill) and the IUD (intrauterine device - also known as the non-hormonal coil). The method you use depends on your preference and the risk of falling pregnant. Emergency contraception is most effective if you take it as early as possible. If you have had unprotected sex or your method failed, you also need to consider STIs. Find out more about STI testing. WHERE CAN I GET EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION? Emergency contraception is provided by Brook Cornwall and is free for all ages. ORDER THE MORNING AFTER PILL ONLINE If you are 16 or over, you can order emergency hormonal contraception (the "morning after pill") online from SH:24 and receive it directly to your home or another location of your choice. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ORDERING THE MORNING AFTER PILL VISIT BROOK CORNWALL If you are under 16, want to discuss your options for emergency contraception or think the IUD is your best option, please contact Brook Cornwall as soon as possible on 0300 30 30 714 . 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 Cornwall, our staff will always discuss and offer an ongoing method of contraception as well as tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). OTHER OPTIONS Emergency contraception is also available for free at most GP surgeries, NHS walk-in centres and minor injuries units. You can also access emergency hormonal contraception from a number of pharmacies across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly: If you are 25 or under, many pharmacies that offer emergency hormonal contraception will do so for free. However, some still charge between £14-30. To check, you can call in advance and ask if the pharmacy is signed up to a PGD. If they say yes, hormonal contraception will be free for people 25 and under. If you are over 25, you can buy the emergency contraceptive pill online or purchase it from a pharmacy (usually £14-30) QUESTIONS How soon after unprotected sex do I need to use emergency contraception? Your risk of falling pregnant Emergency contraception options What if I’m under 16? What if it's too late for emergency contraception? About Referrals Contact Accessibility Cookies and Privacy Policy This website uses cookies to give you the best experience and help us improve site performance. To find out what cookies we use and how to disable non-essential ones, please read our privacy and cookies policy. Accept