Emergency contraception at Unichem

The emergency contraceptive pill, often referred to as the ECP, morning-after pill, or Plan B, is available without a prescription at Unichem. With our quick and confidential service, you can easily obtain emergency contraception when you need it most.

How does the emergency contraception pill work?

The morning-after pill works by preventing or delaying ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries) and may also make it harder for sperm to reach the egg or prevent a fertilised egg from attaching to the uterine wall. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex but can still be used up to 72 hours (for some pills, up to 4 days) afterwards. It’s not an abortion pill and won't work if you're already pregnant.

If you become pregnant, there is no evidence to suggest that taking an emergency contraceptive pill will harm the baby.

How effective is the morning after pill?

If taken within a day, the ECP has a success rate of approximately 95% for women weighing less than 70kg. If you weigh more than 70kg, the pill may be less effective, and a copper IUD is recommended. If you choose to take the ECP, you should take two pills.

The effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive pill decreases over time, so taking it within the first 24 hours gives it the highest chance of preventing pregnancy.

• Within 24 hours: Approximately 95% effective.

• 25–48 hours: About 85% effective.

• 49–72 hours: Approximately 58% effective

Beyond 72 hours, the ECP is less effective and is not recommended.

When should I take the morning after pill?

The emergency contraceptive pill should be taken within 72 hours (three days) of unprotected sex, though it can remain effective for up to 4 days for most people.

The ECP does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Are there side effects from the emergency contraceptive pill?

The emergency contraceptive pill is generally safe, but some people may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Breast tenderness

• Spotting or changes in your next period (it may come earlier or later than usual)

• Abdominal pain or cramping

If vomiting occurs within 3 hours of taking the pill, it may not work, and you may need to take another dose. Serious side effects are rare, but if you experience severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or swelling, it's important to seek medical help right away.

If you’re concerned about side effects, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or your Unichem pharmacist.

Questions the pharmacist asks before supplying a morning after pill

Before providing the morning-after pill, your Unichem pharmacist will ask you a few important questions, including::

• Your current method of contraception

• The reason you're seeking emergency contraception

• How long it has been since you had unprotected sex

• Details about your period, including any irregularities

• Any medical conditions like unexplained vaginal bleeding or Crohn’s disease

• Ongoing medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter, or supplements from a health food store

• Any symptoms you're experiencing, such as pain or burning when urinating, lower abdominal pain, pain during or after sex,

unusual vaginal discharge, or irregular bleeding or spotting

Certain health conditions may make the morning-after pill unsuitable, such as a history of ectopic pregnancy or inflamed fallopian tubes.

Types of morning after pills available in New Zealand

If you've had unprotected sex and want to prevent pregnancy, Unichem pharmacies can provide you with the morning-after pill. In New Zealand, the ECP is known as levonorgestrel. You might recognise it by its brand name, "Plan B" in the USA, or "Levonelle" in the UK. All of these names refer to the same medication: levonorgestrel, also known as the morning-after pill or emergency contraceptive pill.

Where can I find emergency contraception near me?

Find emergency contraception at your local Unichem pharmacy. You can book online, call to schedule an appointment, or simply walk in and speak with one of our pharmacists. Don’t wait, reach out to us today.