Emergency contraception
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Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after you’ve had sex.
It can be used when you’ve had unprotected sex, or if your contraception has failed - such as a missed a pill, late injection or patch, or if a condom has burst.
Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception:
- should never be used as an alternative to normal contraception
- should be used as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure
- doesn’t protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
There are 2 types:
- Emergency contraceptive pill (sometimes called the morning after pill) - available of charge from most community pharmacies and GP practices.
- Copper coil (IUD) - emergency copper coil fittings are available from some GP practices or via sexual health clinics. If your own GP practice is unable to insert the emergency copper coil, it may be available from another GP practice in your area.
Important: Emergency contraception information at NHS inform
See more information at NHS inform about the different types of emergency contraception, including effective rates, or if you have had unprotected sex and are concerned about this.
Read more about emergency contraception at NHS informSexual health
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Sexual health
NHS Highland provides a range of sexual health services, also known as sexual and reproductive health services.
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Sexual health services for young people
Sexual and reproductive health services available in the Highland and Argyll and Bute areas for young people.
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Contraception and pregnancy testing
Contraception - including free condoms by post - and pregnancy testing.
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Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after you’ve had sex.
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Referral for termination of pregnancy
If you would like support with an unintended pregnancy it is best to seek help as soon as is practical.
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HIV testing, PrEP and PEP
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Menopause support
If you are struggling with symptoms that you think might be due to the menopause or perimenopause, you should see you...
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Gender identity
Gender identity services, referral and signposting to further support and information.
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Help after rape or sexual assault
You can get help and support from the NHS Scotland Sexual Assault Response Co-ordination Service (SARCS) if you’ve be...