Emergency contraception plays a crucial role in preventing unintended pregnancies.

At Midnight Pharmacy, we understand how important it is for individuals to have access to reliable information about the morning after pill. One question that often arises is: what should you do if you vomit after taking the morning after pill? In this article, we will guide you through the necessary steps to take in such a situation and explain whether a repeat dose is needed.

How the Morning After Pill Works

The morning after pill is a form of emergency contraception designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. In the UK, there are two main types of morning after pills:

1. Levonorgestrel-based pill (e.g., Levonelle): Most effective when taken within 72 hours (three days) of unprotected sex.

2. Ulipristal acetate-based pill (e.g., ellaOne): Can be taken up to 120 hours (five days) after unprotected sex and is particularly effective closer to ovulation.

Both types work by delaying ovulation and preventing fertilisation. However, their effectiveness can be compromised if vomiting occurs after ingestion.

Note that emergency contraception does not protect against STIs.

What to Do if You Vomit After Taking the Morning After Pill

Vomiting is a known side effect of the morning after pill, although it is relatively uncommon. The timing of the vomiting is critical in determining whether you need to take further action:

1. Vomiting Within Two Hours of Taking the Morning After Pill

If you vomit within two hours of taking a levonorgestrel-based pill or within three hours of taking ulipristal acetate, there is a risk that your body has not absorbed the medication. In this case, you should take another dose as soon as possible to ensure effectiveness.

Steps to Take:

Contact Midnight Pharmacy or Your Healthcare Provider: Reach out to your local pharmacy or GP for guidance and to obtain another dose if necessary.

Stay Hydrated: After vomiting, rehydrate by sipping water slowly to avoid further episodes.

2. Vomiting More Than Two (or Three) Hours After Taking the Pill

If you vomit more than two hours after taking a levonorgestrel-based pill or three hours after taking ulipristal acetate, the medication is likely to have been absorbed into your system, and you should not need a repeat dose.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you find yourself frequently vomiting or experiencing severe side effects after taking the morning after pill, it’s essential to speak with a healthcare professional. Persistent vomiting may reduce the pill’s effectiveness, and you may need alternative emergency contraception.

Tips for Taking the Morning After Pill to Avoid Vomiting

To help prevent vomiting and maximise the effectiveness of the morning after pill, consider the following tips:

Take the Pill with Food: Although the morning after pill can be taken with or without food, taking it after a light snack may help settle your stomach.

Stay Calm and Relaxed: Anxiety and stress can contribute to nausea, so try to remain calm when taking the medication.

Avoid Alcohol: Refrain from consuming alcohol around the time of taking the pill, as it can increase the risk of nausea.

Other Emergency Contraceptive Options

If you are concerned about vomiting or have experienced severe side effects in the past, you might want to consider alternative options for emergency contraception. The copper IUD is a highly effective, hormone-free method that can prevent pregnancy if inserted within five days of unprotected sex.

Protection Against Unintended Pregnancy

At Midnight Pharmacy, we prioritise providing trusted guidance and support for all your health needs, including emergency contraception. If you need advice about the morning after pill or other contraceptive options, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Remember, if you vomit shortly after taking the morning after pill, a repeat dose is often necessary. Ensuring you take swift action can make all the difference in protecting against unintended pregnancy.

Emergency contraception is a safe and reliable option. However, knowing what to do in case of complications, such as vomiting, is crucial. Visit or contact Midnight Pharmacy for professional advice and support tailored to your needs.

This blog was written on behalf of Midnight Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.