Home
/
Health Conditions
/
Morning After Pill Treatment

Morning After Pill

The morning-after pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a form of birth control intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Speak to AHPRA-accredited online doctors.

4.6/5 based on 28000+ reviews

How our doctors can help

*Medicare mandatory and timing applies.

When to consult a doctor for the morning-after pill ?

If you are unsure about dosage or suitability

See a doctor if you are unsure which morning-after pill to take, the correct dosage, or how soon it should be taken after unprotected sex to ensure it is effective.

If you have medical conditions or take regular medications

Consult a doctor if you have pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, breast cancer, severe asthma, or if you are taking medications that may affect how the pill works.

If side effects persist or pregnancy is suspected

Seek medical advice if you experience severe or persistent side effects, or if you have signs of pregnancy or a missed period after taking the morning-after pill, as further assessment may be needed.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC 

When to use ?

You can use a morning-after pill if:

If you have had unprotected sex

The condom broke during intercourse

If you have missed one or more of your usual contraceptive pills

If you have taken your regular contraceptive pills but have diarrhea or vomiting

In case of emergencies where you want to avoid pregnancy

Can I use it as regular contraception?

No, the morning-after pill is only for emergency use, and regular usage might lead to other side effects, such as an irregular menstrual cycle. For regular contraception, it is important to contact a doctor and discuss which contraception method would be better for you.

Types

The type of morning-after pill recommended varies based on timing and individual factors, and while these pills are effective for emergency contraception, they can cause temporary side effects in some people. Depending on the time you have had unprotected sex, your doctor might suggest either of these pills.

Levonorgestrel (LNG) pills
- Most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex
- Available over the counter in Australia

Ulipristal acetate (UPA) pills
- Can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex
- May be more effective closer to ovulation
- Usually requires pharmacist or medical advice

Side effects

After taking the morning-after pill, some people may experience mild and temporary side effects, including:

Nausea

Sore or tender breasts

Headache

Abdominal or stomach pain

Dizziness or fatigue

Changes in the menstrual cycle (earlier, later, lighter, or heavier period)

Can a morning-after pill make your period late or disrupt your cycle?

It is important to understand what to expect after taking a morning-after pill. Yes, the morning-after pill can affect your menstrual cycle as your next period may come earlier, later or be heavier. You might also experience spotting. If your period is over a week late after the morning-after pill, it is advised to take a pregnancy test. It’s advised to speak to a GP if unsure.

Hola Health provides a fast and convenient way for you to consult a doctor online in minutes, 24/7 across Australia. Much like an in-person GP clinic, our AHPRA-registered Australian online GP will conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide the best possible care, instantly.