What is the morning after pill?

Let’s first start with the question on everyone’s mind: what is the morning after pill? Also known as emergency contraception, it is a pill that can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. The pill works by delaying ovulation or preventing the egg from being fertilized. It’s essential to note that the morning after pill shouldn’t be confused with the abortion pill. Emergency contraception can only prevent pregnancy, and it cannot terminate an existing pregnancy.

How effective is the morning after pill in preventing pregnancy?

The most effective morning after pill depends on when you take it. According to Planned Parenthood, the morning after pill is up to 89% effective in preventing pregnancy when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. But, the effectiveness drops to about 75% if taken within 72-120 hours of unprotected sex. It is essential to understand that the morning after pill does not work if you are already pregnant. It is also not a form of regular birth control and should not be taken as a replacement for contraceptives.

When should I take the morning after pill?

The morning after pill is most effective if taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. However, it can still be taken up to 120 hours (five days) after sex, although its effectiveness will decrease. So, the timing of when you take the morning after pill is crucial. But, keep in mind that the morning after pill is not a replacement for regular contraception. It is only meant to be used in emergencies if other methods of contraception fail. It also does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. If you forget to take your regular contraception or experience a condom malfunction, it's essential to consider taking the morning after pill as soon as possible. The sooner you take it, the more effective it will be. The 72-hour window is your best chance to prevent an unplanned pregnancy.

Is the morning after pill the same as the abortion pill?

The morning after pill and the abortion pill are not the same thing. While the morning after pill prevents pregnancy, the abortion pill ends a pregnancy that has already begun. It's also important to remember that the morning after pill is not an alternative to regular contraception and should not be used as a regular form of birth control.

Can I buy the morning after pill over-the-counter?

Most people know that you can get the morning after pill from your GP, however did you know the morning after pill has been available over-the-counter at most pharmacies and health clinics for several years now including at Ricky’s Pharmacy?

Will the morning after pill go on your health record?

Rest assured, your health record won't include any mention of the morning after pill. The only time we'd ever need to discuss it again is if you happen to feel unwell within 3 hours of taking it. Stay safe and worry-free!

What are common side effects of morning-after pill?

Taking the emergency contraceptive pills Levonelle or ellaOne can cause some side effects like headaches, tummy pain, and feeling or being sick. It's possible that it may also affect your next period, making it earlier, later, or more painful than usual. If you happen to be sick (vomit) within 2 hours of taking Levonelle or 3 hours of taking ellaOne, it's a good idea to visit your GP, pharmacist, or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic. They can provide guidance and help, whether it means taking another dose or having an IUD fitted.

Can I use the morning after pill as a regular form of birth control?

The morning after pill is not intended for regular use as a form of contraception. It is designed to be used in emergency situations and should not be used regularly as a replacement for other birth control methods. Using the morning after pill on a regular basis can lead to side effects such as irregular periods, nausea, vomiting and headaches. Moreover, the long-term effects of consistent use of the morning after pill are not well known. It is always better to talk to your healthcare provider about a stable form of birth control to avoid unintended pregnancies.

How do I know if the morning after pill is right for me?

There are many forms of birth control that are safe and effective for regular use. These include birth control pills, IUDs, implantable devices, contraceptive injections, contraceptive patches and condoms. It is recommended to talk to your healthcare provider about which birth control method is best for your lifestyle and preferences.

Can I get pregnant again after taking the morning-after pill?

The morning-after pill isn't a permanent form of birth control. It won't harm your chances of getting pregnant in the future or affect your fertility. These medications are a temporary way to prevent pregnancy — they aren’t long-term forms of birth control. You've got options! We stock legally valid and medically tested emergency hormonal contraception.

Stay Well With Ricky’s Pharmacy This Summer

Don’t miss out on fun in the sun this year. Our pharmacists are here to help you stay well with our pharmacy services this summer!

Summer is a time for fun, travel both in the UK and abroad, and sunshine, but it can also bring with it seasonal health challenges.

At Ricky’s Pharmacy in Ewell, we offer a range of services to keep you and your family healthy all season long. From managing hay fever to preparing for holidays abroad, we’re here to help! Whether you need medication or advice our pharmacy team is here to help you make the most of summer.

Hay Fever Treatments & Advice

Summer can be tough for hay fever sufferers, but you don’t have to let it ruin your time in the sun. At our pharmacy in Ewell, we offer a variety of treatments to keep your symptoms under control.

From antihistamines to nasal sprays, we have the right solution for you. Our pharmacists can help you choose the best option based on your symptoms and lifestyle. Whether you’ve been dealing with hay fever for years or you’re jsut now ntoicing symptoms and don’t know which treatment is right for you, we can help you manage your hay fever and have a great summer.

How To Stay Safe In The Sun

Enjoying the sunshine is one of the best parts of summer, but it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Our Ewell pharmacy offers a range of sunscreens suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin and children’s delicate skin.

Here are some tips to stay safe in the sun:

Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every two hours or after swimming.
Wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM.

Our pharmacists can help you choose the right products and provide advice on how to protect your skin. Drop by our pharmacy to pick up all your sun protection essentials.

Prescriptions for Travelling Abroad

Travelling abroad this summer? Make sure you have all your medications before you go! At Ricky’s Pharmacy, we offer convenient prescription refill services to ensure you have enough medication for your trip. We can also provide advice on storing and transporting your medications, as well as what to do in case you need a refill while away.

Don’t let the stress of medication management spoil your holiday. Visit our pharmacy to get prepared for your travels.

Support After Feeling Unwell After Going Abroad

Traveling can sometimes lead to unexpected health issues, such as rashes, insect bites and upset stomachs. If you’ve returned from a trip feeling unwell, our Ewell pharmacy is here to help.

We offer treatments for common travel-related ailments, including anti-diarrheal medications and rehydration solutions.

Our pharmacists can also provide advice on managing symptoms and when to seek further medical attention. Plus, if you’re dealing with common illnesses such as a sore throat or ear infection, we may even be able to prescibe medication through the Pharmacy First scheme, helping you feel well again in no time.

Travel Vaccinations

Staying healthy while traveling starts with proper vaccinations and preparation.

Wherever you’re travelling, our pharmacists can help you determine which vaccines you need to keep you safe. We provide vaccinations for:

Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid
Yellow Fever
Tetanus
And more through our partner Miles Pharmacy

If you’r travelling abroad it’s important to plan your visit well in advance of your trip to ensure you have enough time to complete any necessary vaccination schedules. Our knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and make sure you’re fully protected.

Why Choose Ricky’s Pharmacy?

Choosing our Ewell pharmacy means you get personalised, local service that you can trust.

Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare and support to our community. We understand the importance of convenience and reliability, especially during the busy summer months.
This summer, stay well with the help of our Ewell pharmacy.

Whether you need relief from hay fever, sun protection tips, prescription refills, support for travel-related illnesses, or travel vaccinations, we have you covered.

Visit Ricky’s Pharmacy today and let us help you enjoy a healthy and happy summer!

Share the knowledge: