Emergency Contraception

WHAT: Through the prompt use of emergency contraception, many unwanted and unplanned pregnancies can be avoided. Emergency contraception (EC) is commonly referred to as “the morning after pill” but this term is misleading because it can be safely taken up to 72 hours after under-protected sex. It is essential to remember that its efficacy falls the longer the time lag between the unprotected sex and taking the medication. Emergency contraception is available in Ireland only on a prescription basis.

SERVICES: Emergency contraception forms part of the comprehensive sexual and reproductive health service offered the IFPA's two clinics. The clinics run dedicated contraception services on a Sunday. See here for clinic hours of our Dublin city centre service and here for clinic hours of our Tallaght emergency contraception weekend clinc.

POLICY: The IFPA has for many years campaigned and advocated for better access to emergency contraception for women. As emergency contraception works in a limited timeframe, we advocate for easier access. We also belive that emergency contraception should be made available over-the-counter in pharmacies, as it is in many other jurisdictions.

MORE: Every sexually active woman may need to access EC at some point in her life so it is important that everyone learn the facts about EC before it becomes an emergency.

• Doctors have been prescribing and women having been using emergency contraception safely for over 40 years;
• Emergency contraceptive pills (ECP) are made from the hormone progesterone, the same hormone contained in regular contraceptive pills;
• ECP must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. The sooner it is taken the more effective it is;
• ECP is only available in Ireland on prescription from a doctor;
• ECP works primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation;
• ECP does not cause an abortion and has no effect on an established pregnancy;
• ECP can be safely taken as many times as a woman needs or wants, however, it is not recommended only because ECP is not as effective in preventing pregnancy as other forms of contraception;
• ECP is safe even for women who cannot normally take hormonal contraception;
• ECP may cause some women to feel nauseous for a day or two and may also cause a woman’s next period to come earlier or later