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.

Why Visit Your Local Pharmacy?

If you need health advice or medicine visit Ricky’s Pharmacy in Ewell. Our friendly pharmacists are here to help!

Need health advice or medicine in Ewell and Epsom? Your local pharmacy is the best place to go when you need care and advice. At Ricky’s pharmacy we’re pleased to offer a range of services, some you may not have heard of before, all there to help you feeling better and back on track.

Morning After Pill & Emergency Contraception Service

Life doesn’t always go according to plan, and when it comes to contraception, accidents can happen. When this happens it’s important that you get emergency contraception as soon as possible.

At Ricky’s Pharmacy we offer discreet and confidential access to the morning after pill, we’re here to help you get what you need quickly when you need it most. Our pharmacists are ready to provide advice and support, and will help you get the emergency contraception you need and help you arrange getting tested for STD’s if you need to.

Ear Wax Removal & Microsuction

Our ears are often neglected until they become a problem, we typically only notice things aren’t quite right when there’s pain or loss of hearing.

Ear wax build-up might seem like a small thing but it’s often the cause of discomfort, impaired hearing, and even ear infections if left alone.

At Ricky’s Pharmacy we’re pleased to offer an ear wax removal and microsuction service. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as reduced hearing or ear pain, don’t hesitate to speak to our friendly pharmacists who will answer your questions and see if you could benefit from the service.

Flu and Travel Vaccination Services

Prevention is always better than cure, and making sure your vaccinations are up to date is a great way to stay on top of your health. whether you’re looking for travel vaccinations or seasonal flu vaccines we can help you stay vaccinated and stay healthy. If you’d like to know more about the range of vaccines available at our pharmacy, you can contact us online here for details.

Repeat Prescriptions with Delivery Available

Managing long term conditions like diabetes and epilepsy means managing medication. We know that this can be a hassle that nobody likes to deal with, and that’s why we always try to offer a seamless prescription service.

If you can’t make it to the pharmacy we also offer a delivery service so you can stay up to date with your medication without the need to travel to the pharmacy. Our friendly delivery drivers are always ready to bring you the medication you need.

Accessing Pharmacy First Services

You may not be aware of the new scheme launched in the UK called Pharmacy First. Through this scheme we’re able to provide treatment for a range of common conditions without the need for a GP appointment.

From minor ear infections and impetigo to shingles, sinusitis, sore throats, and uncomplicated UTIs, our pharmacists are able to assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment where possible.

If you’d like to make a pharmacy first appointment you can read more about the services we offer and book a convenient appointment online. We’re here to help!

Ricky’s Pharmacy is so much more than just a place to pick up prescriptions—we’re proud to be a crucial part of the community in Ewell helping people stay well.

Whether you need emergency contraception, ear wax removal, vaccinations, repeat prescriptions, or treatment for minor ailments, our friendly team is here and happy to help.

Visit Ricky’s Pharmacy today and take control of your health with confidence and care.

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