Morning After Pill in Ireland — Complete Patient Guide

What is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception (EC) reduces the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (missed pill, broken condom, etc.). Three options are available in Ireland: two oral medications (levonorgestrel, ulipristal acetate) and the copper intrauterine device (IUD). All are most effective the sooner they are used after intercourse — none is 100% effective.

EC works primarily by delaying or inhibiting ovulation. It does not cause abortion — if a pregnancy is already established, EC will not interrupt it.

The three options compared

Levonorgestrel (Norlevo, Plan B)

• Window: up to 72 hours after unprotected sex (most effective in first 24 hours)
• Access: over-the-counter at Irish pharmacies; can also be prescribed
• Effectiveness: roughly 85% if taken within 24 hours, dropping over the 72-hour window
• Side effects: nausea, mild fatigue, possible cycle disruption
• Note: may be less effective at higher body weights — discuss alternatives if BMI is high

Ulipristal acetate (EllaOne)

• Window: up to 120 hours (5 days)
• Access: typically by prescription or pharmacy consultation in Ireland
• Effectiveness: more effective than levonorgestrel, particularly in the 72–120 hour window and around ovulation
• Side effects: nausea, headache, cycle disruption
• Note: avoid hormonal contraception for 5 days after taking ulipristal (it can reduce ulipristal effectiveness)

Copper IUD

• Window: up to 120 hours after unprotected sex OR up to 5 days after the earliest predicted ovulation
• Access: requires fitting by trained clinician in Ireland
• Effectiveness: the most effective form of emergency contraception (over 99%)
• Bonus: provides ongoing contraception for up to 10 years
• Note: not suitable for everyone — STI screening and assessment of suitability needed

Choosing between options

Per NICE CKS and ICGP guidance, the most effective option (copper IUD) is offered as first-line where available and the patient is suitable. For oral options, ulipristal is generally preferred over levonorgestrel — particularly if more than 24 hours have passed, around ovulation, or at higher BMI. Levonorgestrel remains a practical option for over-the-counter access when speed of access matters most.

Equally important next steps

• STI screening if there is any risk — postal test or in-person clinic
• Pregnancy test 3 weeks later if your next period is late or unusual
• Discussion of ongoing contraception — many methods are far more effective than emergency contraception. LARCs (long-acting reversible contraceptives — implants, IUDs/IUSs) have the highest effectiveness
• Free contraception scheme — Ireland has a free contraception scheme for women aged 17–35 (HSE); check current age eligibility

The Online Doctor consultation

An emergency contraception consultation is fast, confidential, and same-day. The Online Doctor will: assess timing and suitability, discuss the best option for your situation, prescribe ulipristal acetate where indicated (sent direct to your pharmacy via HealthMail), advise on follow-up, and discuss ongoing contraception. For copper IUD, the Online Doctor will refer to a fitting clinic.