Emergency Hormonal Contraception at Highfield Pharmacy, St Albans

Emergency hormonal contraception (EHC) is a safe, effective way to reduce the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. At Highfield Pharmacy in St Albans our trained pharmacists provide confidential, evidence-based advice and same-day access to EHC under the NHS.

What is emergency hormonal contraception?

Emergency hormonal contraception (EHC) is a medicine taken after unprotected sex to help prevent pregnancy. It is most effective the sooner it is taken and is intended for single use following an episode of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

How EHC works

EHC primarily works by delaying ovulation so that an egg is not released when sperm may be present. It does not terminate an existing pregnancy. Your pharmacist will explain how and when to take the medication, and what to expect afterwards.

Who is EHC for and eligibility

EHC is available to anyone who has had unprotected sex or experienced contraceptive failure, regardless of age. There is no routine charge when supplied through the NHS Emergency Hormonal Contraception service at Highfield Pharmacy.

• You had unprotected sex.
• Your contraceptive method failed (e.g. condom broke, missed pills).
• You are within the effective time window for EHC (see table below).
• You can provide brief details of when the unprotected sex occurred and any medications you take.

Important considerations

Your pharmacist will assess: medical history, current medications, allergies and the timing since the unprotected sex. Certain medicines can affect which EHC is most suitable, and body weight/BMI can influence effectiveness — your pharmacist will advise whether a particular option is right for you.

Types of emergency hormonal contraception

| Type | Brand example | Typical time window | Notes | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Levonorgestrel | Levonelle | Up to 72 hours after sex (earlier is better) | Widely used; may be less effective the later it is taken. | | Ulipristal acetate | EllaOne | Up to 120 hours (5 days) after sex | Often preferred when 72–120 hours have passed or depending on clinical factors. |

Your pharmacist will recommend the most appropriate EHC based on timing, medical history and any interacting medicines.

How Highfield Pharmacy delivers EHC

At Highfield Pharmacy we provide a private, pharmacist-led consultation in a discreet consultation room. During the consultation we will:

• Assess eligibility and medical history.
• Discuss the most appropriate EHC option for you.
• Supply the medication and explain how to take it.
• Advise on follow-up contraception and any further care needed.

If EHC is suitable and available we aim to supply it on the same day. Where EHC is provided under the NHS service, there is no routine charge for eligible patients. If a private option is needed, the pharmacist will explain costs before supply.

What to bring to your appointment

• An idea of when the unprotected sex or contraceptive failure occurred.
• A list of any regular medicines, including herbal remedies.
• If possible, details of your usual contraceptive method.

Practical advice and checklist

• Take EHC as soon as possible after unprotected sex; earlier use increases effectiveness.
• If you vomit within two hours of taking an oral EHC tablet, tell the pharmacist as you may need another dose.
• EHC does not protect against sexually transmitted infections; your pharmacist can advise on further sexual health support.
• After EHC, consider starting or returning to a regular method of contraception; the pharmacist can discuss options and next steps.

Symptom / eligibility checklist before you visit:

• Did you have unprotected sex or a contraceptive failure?
• Can you estimate when this occurred?
• Are you taking any medicines that might interact (e.g. some anticonvulsants, herbal remedies)?
• Are you pregnant or do you suspect pregnancy? (EHC is not effective if you are already pregnant.)

Frequently asked questions

Q: How soon should I take EHC?

A: The sooner the better. Levonorgestrel is most effective within 72 hours; ulipristal acetate can work up to 120 hours. Your pharmacist will advise the best option for the time since sex.

Q: Can anyone get EHC at Highfield Pharmacy?

A: Yes. EHC is available to people of all ages through the NHS Emergency Hormonal Contraception service. A pharmacist will carry out a confidential assessment first.

Q: Will I need a prescription?

A: No prescription is usually needed when EHC is supplied directly by the pharmacist following an assessment at Highfield Pharmacy under the NHS service.

Q: Are there side effects?

A: Some people experience nausea, heavier or lighter bleeding, or changes to their next period. Your pharmacist will explain common side effects and what to expect.

Book a consultation at Highfield Pharmacy

We are here to help people in St Albans access timely, confidential EHC. You can visit the pharmacy during opening hours for a private consultation, or call ahead to check availability and speak to a pharmacist. Our team will support you with clear, non-judgemental advice and arrange supply or onward referral as needed.

If you need emergency hormonal contraception, please contact Highfield Pharmacy in St Albans to book an appointment or speak to a pharmacist today.