EmergencyContraception

What is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is taking steps after you have had unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. (If you wish to know more about everyday contraception options you can read our page on contraception).
The most common type of emergency contraception is the emergency contraceptive pill (morning after pill). When taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex the emergency contraceptive pill is 95% effective. If taken within 3-5 days of having unprotected sex the emergency contraceptive pill is 50% effective.

You can read about all options for emergency contraception, effectiveness and side effects here. 

    When can emergency contraception be used?

    When:

    • Contraception was not used
    • Contraception may have failed (missed pills, condom broke or came off etc.)
    • An unreliable method like the withdrawal method was used.

    Emergency contraception should not be used as a regular method of birth control. For ongoing contraceptive options see our contraception information.

    Where can I access emergency contraception?

    The emergency contraceptive pill can be purchased over the counter at pharmacies. It can also be obtained from Family Planning Tasmania clinics and other health clinics. If you are under 24 years old, you can contact Family Planning Tasmania or your local youth service to ask about financial assistance.

    Return to Top

    Related

    • Contraception

      • Sex

        What is sex? Many people think of sex as penetrative intercourse (putting a penis into another person’s body), while others see sex as any kind of consensual physical intimacy. “Sex” means different things to different people depending on their experiences, culture, values and beliefs. As people’s Read more

        1430109_99901992FindourClinicsView Locations
        1430109_99901992MakeanAppointment
        Glenorchy
        9am-5pm Mon-Fri6273 9117
        Launceston
        9am-5pm Mon-Fri6343 4566
        Burnie
        9am-5pm Mon, Wed, Thurs6431 7692
        1430109_99901992FreeCondoms4UTxt us 4 free condoms!
        1430109_99901992PregnancyCounsellingThink you might be pregnant? Need to talk?