Emergency Contraception Options - Children By Choice

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Emergency contraception

SUMMARY

Emergency contraception is available in Australia as the morning after pill or copper IUD. Find out how they work, where to get them, and your options.

Emergency contraception (EC) can be used if you’ve had unprotected sex, your condom broke, you missed a pill, or your contraception was tampered with in the last 5 days.
EC works by delaying ovulation (the release of an egg), which stops sperm from fertilising the egg. It cannot end an existing pregnancy.
The most common form is a single pill, sometimes called the morning after pill, though it can be taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex.
In Australia, there are two types of EC pill available over the counter:
- Levonorgestrel pill (LNG-ECP, 1.5mg) — licensed for use up to 72 hours (3 days) after sex, ~85% effective if taken in time.
- Ulipristal acetate pill (UPA, 30mg) — licensed for use up to 120 hours (5 days) after sex, ~98% effective if taken in time. Only brand available: EllaOne®.
If you’re under 16, you may need a prescription to access EC. A GP, sexual health clinic, or hospital can provide this.
Buying EC over the counter may involve answering a few questions with a pharmacist. You can ask for privacy if you feel uncomfortable.
Some pharmacists may refuse EC due to personal beliefs. This doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong – you can just try another pharmacy.
A copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception if fitted within 5 days. It is more effective than pills and works long-term, but must be inserted by a trained GP or sexual health professional.

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