Emergency contraception

There are 2 types of emergency contraception in Australia.

Emergency contraception is used to stop pregnancy after you have already had sex.

The Copper IUD

• It can be used up to 5 days after you’ve had sex so you don’t get pregnant.
• You need to see a doctor or nurse to get the Copper IUD.

Emergency contraceptive pills

Emergency contraceptive pills are also called the morning after pill.

There are 2 types of emergency contraceptive pills:

• 1 pill can be used up to 3 days after you’ve had sex so you don’t get pregnant.
• 1 pill can be used up to 5 days after you’ve had sex so you don’t get pregnant.

You can get emergency contraceptive pills at the chemist.

Emergency contraceptive pills:

• don’t always work
• can be expensive
• can make you feel sick or give you a headache.

If you need to use emergency contraception, you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the option that is right for you.

Download the WWDA Easy English Book: Safer Sex and Contraception to learn more about the different types of contraception.

Learn more about Emergency contraception pills on the Contraception Australia website.