Emergency Pill Taken?Later Unprotected Sex Needs Fresh Advice
PeriodsArticleA pill taken earlier does not cover a later episode of unprotected sex.
If you have had unprotected sex again after taking an emergency contraceptive pill, contact a pharmacist, sexual health service or GP promptly. Do not wait for your period or a pregnancy test to ask about emergency contraception.12
Myth: “The pill I took already covers this.”
An emergency contraceptive pill does not provide ongoing protection against pregnancy from later unprotected sex. Croydon Sexual Health1 advises seeking advice because emergency contraception may be needed again. The NHS2 explains that emergency contraception is time-sensitive.12
Tell the adviser what happened
Try: “I took this emergency pill at this time. I had unprotected sex again at this time. What should I do now?”
Give the exact previous pill name and the dates of the episodes. Have the professional assess the next step; do not choose another pill or combine types yourself.12
Period, Handled includes a Flag-It list and visit script. Use the visit script to keep your questions together. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
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Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- Croydon Sexual HealthEmergency Contraception (opens in a new tab)abcd
- NHS, 2024Emergency contraception (opens in a new tab)abcd
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