Why is Emergency Contraception Service Important for Teenagers

We understand that accidents happen. If your birth control method has failed or you had unprotected sex within the last 5 days, we can help. Pearl Chemist Group offers Emergency Contraception Service to anyone over the age of 16 in the UK. Commonly referred to as the ‘morning after pill,’ emergency contraception is up to 99% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancy. 

With several locations across South London, your nearest PCG pharmacy can provide you with Emergency Contraception Services in London quickly, discreetly, and safely.

For teenagers seeking guidance abouttheir sexual experiences for the first time, it’s important that they have easy and confidential access to the emergency contraception pill to reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies.

Teen pregnancy is 100% preventable. Teenagers should be pro-active about preventing pregnancy by always using a reliable birth control method (birth control pills, patch, etc) and practicing safe sex (condoms). That being said, it’s of utmost importance that teenagers can easily and comfortably access emergency contraception if the need arises.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why emergency contraception services are so important for teenagers.

When Should Teens Use Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception―commonly referred to as the "morning-after pill" helps reduce the risk of pregnancy after under-protected or unprotected sex and is safe for teens.

Here are some situations when the use of emergency contraception is useful:

· The teen didn’t use any form of birth control.

· The teen didn’t take or use their birth control correctly.

· The condom slipped off or tore.

· The teen vomited after taking her birth control pill.

· The teen was assaulted sexually.

There are 2 emergency contraception methods:
 
IUD

The most effective method is to have a healthcare provider insert a copper intrauterine device (IUD) within five days of unprotected sexual intercourse. If left in permanently, it is a reliable method of long-term birth control method.

ORAL TABLETS

The most commonly used emergency contraception is the oral emergency contraceptive drug, the morning-after pill. There are two: ulipristal acetate and levonorgestrel.

· Levonorgestrel is an OTC drug that can be bought without a prescription by individuals of all ages.

· Ulipristal acetate (brand name Ella) is available by prescription only.

NOTE: Emergency contraception pills must be taken within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected or under-protected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy. Emergency contraception after ovulation is less effective and pregnancy could still happen.

Teens can visit their local Pearl Chemist Group Sexual Health Clinic to buy emergency contraception within 5 days after unprotected sex. For more information visit our local Pearl Chemist Group branch.