If you have had unprotected sex or experienced contraceptive failure, the morning after pill can help prevent an unintended pregnancy. Emergency contraception is safe, effective, and readily available in Ireland. This guide explains everything you need to know about getting the morning after pill, including where to access it, how it works, and what to expect.
What is the Morning After Pill?
The morning after pill, also called emergency contraception, is a medication that can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is not the same as the abortion pill. The morning after pill works by delaying or preventing ovulation, meaning the egg is not released to be fertilised. If ovulation has already occurred, the pill will not work, and it cannot terminate an existing pregnancy.
Emergency contraception is intended as a backup option when regular contraception has not been used or has failed. It should not be relied upon as a primary method of birth control, though using it occasionally will not harm your fertility or future pregnancies.
Types of Morning After Pill Available in Ireland
There are two main types of emergency contraception pills available in Ireland, each with different active ingredients and effectiveness windows.
Levonorgestrel (Norlevo, Levonelle)
Levonorgestrel-based emergency contraception is the most commonly used morning after pill in Ireland. It is available over the counter from pharmacies without a prescription.
Key Facts:
- Active ingredient: Levonorgestrel 1.5mg
- Brand names: Norlevo, Levonelle
- Effectiveness window: Up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex
- Availability: Over the counter at any pharmacy
- Prescription needed: No
How it works:
Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestogen hormone that works primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation. It also thickens cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
Effectiveness by timing:
- Within 24 hours: 95% effective at preventing pregnancy
- 24-48 hours: 85% effective
- 48-72 hours: 58% effective
The sooner you take it, the more effective it will be. Do not wait to see if you might be pregnant. Take the pill as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
EllaOne (Ulipristal Acetate)
EllaOne is a more recent form of emergency contraception that remains effective for longer than levonorgestrel. In Ireland, ellaOne requires a prescription from a doctor or can be obtained through an online consultation.
Key Facts:
- Active ingredient: Ulipristal acetate 30mg
- Brand name: ellaOne
- Effectiveness window: Up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex
- Availability: Prescription only
- Where to get it: GP, online doctor service (GetYourGP), or some pharmacies with a pharmacist prescriber
How it works:
Ulipristal acetate works by blocking or delaying the release of an egg from the ovary. It may also alter the uterine lining. Unlike levonorgestrel, ellaOne maintains its effectiveness throughout the 5-day window without significant decline.
Effectiveness:
- Consistent 98% effectiveness when taken within 120 hours of unprotected sex
- Equally effective on day 1 as on day 5
- More effective than levonorgestrel, particularly after 24 hours
EllaOne is the recommended choice if more than 72 hours have passed since unprotected sex, if you are closer to ovulation, or if you have a higher body weight.
How Effective is the Morning After Pill?
The morning after pill is not 100% effective, but it significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy when taken promptly.
Important considerations:
- Body weight may affect effectiveness: Some studies suggest levonorgestrel may be less effective in women weighing over 70kg (11 stone). EllaOne may be a better choice for those weighing 70-85kg. For women over 85kg, the copper IUD is the most reliable emergency contraception.
- Timing matters most for levonorgestrel: Take it as soon as possible. Every hour counts.
- Neither pill works after ovulation: If you have already ovulated, the morning after pill cannot prevent pregnancy.
Where to Get the Morning After Pill in Ireland
There are several ways to access emergency contraception in Ireland. The right choice depends on which type of pill you need and how quickly you can access services.
1. Pharmacy (Over the Counter)
For levonorgestrel (Norlevo):
- Available at any pharmacy in Ireland without a prescription
- No age restriction
- The pharmacist will have a brief consultation with you
- Available during pharmacy opening hours, including some late-night and 24-hour pharmacies
What to expect:
The pharmacist will ask a few questions about your menstrual cycle, when you had unprotected sex, and any medications you are taking. This is to ensure the pill is safe and appropriate for you. They will also explain how to take it and what side effects to expect.
2. Your GP
Your GP can provide a prescription for either levonorgestrel or ellaOne. This is a good option if:
- You want ellaOne (prescription required)
- You have questions or concerns you would like to discuss
- You want advice on ongoing contraception
- You have a medical card (prescription may be free)
Contact your GP surgery first thing in the morning for a same-day appointment if possible. Explain that it is for emergency contraception so they understand the time-sensitive nature.
3. Online Doctor (GetYourGP)
Online consultations offer a convenient and discreet way to access emergency contraception, particularly for ellaOne.
How it works with GetYourGP:
- Complete a quick online consultation form
- A GP reviews your request promptly
- If appropriate, a prescription for ellaOne is issued
- Collect from your local pharmacy or have it delivered
Benefits of online consultations:
- Available outside normal GP hours
- Discreet and private
- Fast turnaround (often same day)
- Access to ellaOne without a GP visit
- [Book a consultation](/services/morning-after-pill) for emergency contraception now
4. Sexual Health Clinics
Some sexual health clinics in Ireland provide emergency contraception. They may also offer STI testing and advice on ongoing contraception.
5. Hospital Emergency Departments
While not the primary route, A&E departments can provide emergency contraception if no other options are available. However, pharmacies and online services are usually faster and more appropriate.
Cost of the Morning After Pill in Ireland
Costs vary depending on where you access emergency contraception and which type you need.
Free Contraception Scheme for Ages 17-35
Good news: under the Irish Government's free contraception scheme, women and people who can become pregnant aged 17-35 can access emergency contraception for free. This includes:
- Levonorgestrel: Free from participating pharmacies (no prescription needed, just show ID to confirm age)
- EllaOne: Free with a prescription from a GP or online doctor (no charge for the medication at pharmacy)
To access free emergency contraception under this scheme:
- Visit a participating pharmacy
- Confirm you are aged 17-35
- The pharmacist will provide levonorgestrel at no charge
For ellaOne, get a prescription from your GP or an online service like GetYourGP, then collect the medication free of charge from a participating pharmacy.
This scheme makes emergency contraception accessible to everyone in the eligible age range, regardless of financial circumstances.
How to Take the Morning After Pill
Taking the morning after pill is straightforward:
- Swallow the pill whole with water
- Take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex
- You can take it with or without food (though taking it with food may reduce nausea)
- If you vomit within 2-3 hours of taking the pill, contact a pharmacist or doctor as you may need another dose
For levonorgestrel, the single 1.5mg tablet is the complete dose. For ellaOne, the single 30mg tablet is the complete dose.
After taking the pill, use barrier contraception (such as condoms) until your next period, as the morning after pill does not provide ongoing protection.
Side Effects and What to Expect
The morning after pill is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects are common:
Common Side Effects
- Nausea (taking with food can help)
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Breast tenderness
- Dizziness
Effects on Your Period
The morning after pill may affect your next period:
- Your period may come earlier or later than expected (up to a week either way)
- It may be heavier or lighter than usual
- You may experience spotting before your period
If your period is more than 7 days late, or if you experience unusual symptoms, take a pregnancy test and consult a doctor.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact a healthcare professional if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain (could indicate ectopic pregnancy)
- Period more than 7 days late
- Lighter than normal period followed by pregnancy symptoms
- Allergic reaction (rash, difficulty breathing, swelling)
When the Morning After Pill Will Not Work
It is important to understand that the morning after pill is not effective in certain situations:
1. After Ovulation Has Occurred
If you have already ovulated (released an egg), the morning after pill cannot prevent pregnancy. The pill works by delaying ovulation, not by affecting a fertilised egg.
2. If You Are Already Pregnant
The morning after pill does not cause abortion. If a fertilised egg has already implanted, the pill will not affect the pregnancy. Taking the morning after pill during early pregnancy will not harm the pregnancy.
3. Outside the Effectiveness Window
- Levonorgestrel is not recommended beyond 72 hours
- EllaOne is not effective beyond 120 hours
If you are outside these windows, the copper IUD (inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex) may still be an option. Speak to a doctor urgently.
The Copper IUD: An Alternative Option
The copper IUD (intrauterine device) is the most effective form of emergency contraception, with over 99% effectiveness when inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.
Advantages:
- Most effective emergency contraception available
- Remains effective regardless of where you are in your cycle
- Can be left in place for ongoing contraception (up to 5-10 years)
- Not affected by body weight
Considerations:
- Requires a healthcare appointment for insertion
- May cause heavier periods initially
- Not suitable for everyone (discuss with your doctor)
If you are considering the copper IUD, contact your GP or sexual health clinic promptly, as time is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the morning after pill without my parents knowing?
Yes. There is no age restriction for purchasing levonorgestrel from a pharmacy in Ireland. Pharmacists are bound by confidentiality and will not contact your parents.
Will taking the morning after pill affect my fertility?
No. The morning after pill does not affect your future fertility. You can become pregnant in your next cycle after taking it.
How often can I take the morning after pill?
While there is no strict limit, the morning after pill is not intended for regular use. If you find yourself needing it frequently, speak to a doctor about more reliable ongoing contraception.
Can I take the morning after pill while breastfeeding?
Levonorgestrel is generally considered safe while breastfeeding. For ellaOne, it is recommended to express and discard breast milk for 1 week after taking it. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice specific to your situation.
Does the morning after pill protect against STIs?
No. The morning after pill only prevents pregnancy. If you have had unprotected sex, consider getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
What if I have already taken the morning after pill this cycle?
If you need emergency contraception again in the same cycle, consult a doctor. They can advise on the best approach, which may include the copper IUD.
Is the morning after pill the same as the abortion pill?
No. These are completely different medications. The morning after pill prevents pregnancy by delaying ovulation. It does not end an existing pregnancy. The abortion pill is a different medication used to terminate an early pregnancy under medical supervision.
Taking Care of Your Sexual Health
Needing emergency contraception can feel stressful, but it is a normal part of many people's reproductive lives. There is no shame in accessing emergency contraception, and healthcare professionals are trained to provide non-judgmental support.
After using emergency contraception, consider:
- Getting tested for STIs if there is any risk of infection
- Discussing ongoing contraception with your doctor or pharmacist
- Booking a follow-up if your period does not arrive as expected
- Taking a pregnancy test if your period is more than 7 days late
Get Emergency Contraception with GetYourGP
If you need emergency contraception, particularly ellaOne, GetYourGP offers fast, discreet online consultations with Irish-registered GPs.
Why choose GetYourGP for emergency contraception?
- Quick online consultation
- Same-day prescriptions issued
- Discreet and confidential service
- Prescription sent to your chosen pharmacy
- Available outside normal GP hours
Do not wait. The sooner you take the morning after pill, the more effective it will be. [Book an emergency contraception consultation](/services/morning-after-pill) now or [learn more about our services](/consultations).
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*This article is for informational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If you have concerns about emergency contraception or need personalised guidance, consult a healthcare professional. Emergency contraception is time-sensitive, so seek help as soon as possible after unprotected sex.*
*Last updated: January 2026*