Every time a man and a woman have (PIV) sex, there is a chance the woman may become pregnant. Most people use contraception to stop conception (getting pregnant).
But sometimes people might have sex without using contraception to stop conception. Sometimes contraception may fail, for example if:
- A condom splits or breaks
- You are sick or have an upset stomach while taking the contraceptive pill
If this happens, you can take emergency hormonal contraception (EHC). The most common kind of emergency contraception must be taken within 72 hours of having sex. But there are other kinds of contraception you can take up to five days after having sex. If you take EHC you have a much lower chance of becoming pregnant.
You can get EHC from these places for free.
Crucial: Pharmacy opening hours may be different during the Christmas break but you will still be able to access Emergency Contraception. Christmas and New Year 2020/21 Bank Holiday Pharmacy Opening Times.
Crucial: During Coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions you can still access EHC by a variety of routes, including the School Health Nurse Service, via the Sexual Health Services, from your GP and at pharmacists. Find out more about Getting EHC in Oxfordshire during coronavirus restrictions. If you are a young person aged under 19 and struggling to access contraception during Coronavirus restrictions, you can contact the Contraception Outreach Service - call or text 07920 470 529 Mon-Fri 9-5pm or email oxfordhealth.contraception.outreach@nhs.net
Getting EHC free from a pharmacy
You can buy EHC at a pharmacy. But young women aged 21 and under can get EHC free of charge from pharmacies (also called chemists) on the below list. If your local pharmacy cannot offer this service, they will tell you where you can access free EHC. EHC, including free EHC, will continue to be available during Coronavirus restrictions.
Download the list of Pharmacies in Oxfordshire which provide free EHC to young people aged 21 and under. This list is updated regularly (last update Oct 2020) and includes information about other ways to get EHC. Remember that during Coronavirus restrictions it is crucial to phone ahead as well as check websites. Pharmacy opening hours for August Bank Holiday Monday 31st August 2020.
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