Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill) in Neath

If you’ve had unprotected sex or your usual contraception has failed, we’re here to help.
Our friendly team provides NHS emergency contraception in Neath in a safe, calm and confidential environment.

What Is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if something has gone wrong with your normal method of contraception, such as:

• a condom splitting or coming off
• missing one or more contraceptive pills
• being late for your contraceptive injection
• not being sure whether your contraception has worked properly

It’s often known as the “morning after pill”, but it can usually be taken for up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex, and some options can be used up to 120 hours (5 days).
The sooner you seek help, the more effective it is.

NHS Emergency Contraception at Our Neath Pharmacy

We provide this NHS Wales service from our Neath Pharmacy at Victoria Gardens (SA11 1HA).
You’ll have a private consultation with a trained pharmacist in our consultation room. We will:

• ask a few questions about what has happened and when
• check your general health and any medicines you take
• advise on the most suitable form of emergency contraception
• provide the medicine if it is safe and appropriate for you
• discuss ongoing contraception and how to protect yourself in future

Everything is handled with sensitivity and respect. We understand this can feel worrying or embarrassing, but we are here to support you, not judge.

Who Can Use This Service?

Emergency contraception may be suitable for you if:

• you have had unprotected sex in the last few days, or
• you’re worried your usual contraception has failed.

During your consultation, the pharmacist will check whether you are eligible for free NHS emergency contraception in line with current NHS Wales criteria.
If for any reason the NHS service is not suitable, we’ll clearly explain your options and help signpost you to the most appropriate local service.

How Quickly Do I Need to Act?

Emergency contraception works best the earlier it is taken. Please don’t wait and see – it’s always better to come and speak to us as soon as possible.

• Pills: usually effective up to 72 hours and in some cases up to 120 hours after unprotected sex.
• Emergency IUD (coil): can be fitted by other NHS services and may work up to 5 days after unprotected sex. We can help refer or signpost you.

Pregnancy Tests and Ongoing Support

If you are worried you may already be pregnant, we can offer advice on pregnancy testing and next steps.
Our team can also talk to you about:

• regular contraception options
• safer sex and protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• where to access additional local NHS or sexual health services if needed

You can also speak to our NHS Prescribing Pharmacist service about a range of everyday health concerns.

Is the Service Confidential?

Yes. Our emergency contraception service is completely confidential, even if you are under 16.
We may encourage you to talk to a trusted adult, but we will not share your information without your permission unless we are concerned about your safety.

When to Seek Further Help

You should seek further medical advice if:

• you vomit within a few hours of taking an emergency contraceptive pill
• your next period is more than a week late, lighter or heavier than usual
• you develop severe lower tummy pain after using emergency contraception

If you are worried at any point, please get in touch with us or contact NHS 111 Wales for urgent advice.

Emergency Contraception FAQs

Can I get the morning after pill for free in Neath?

Yes. Our Neath Pharmacy provides free NHS emergency contraception for eligible patients as part of the NHS Wales scheme. The pharmacist will confirm your eligibility during a short, confidential consultation.

Do I need an appointment?

No appointment is needed. You can simply walk in and ask to speak to the pharmacist.
If you prefer, you can also book a time online to see us at Victoria Gardens, SA11 1HA.

How long after unprotected sex can I use emergency contraception?

Emergency contraceptive pills can usually be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex and, depending on the type, sometimes up to 120 hours. However, they are more effective the sooner you take them, so please come and see us as quickly as you can.

Is the service confidential if I’m under 16?

Yes. Our emergency contraception service is confidential regardless of your age. We will only share information if we are worried about your safety or someone else’s, and we would always try to discuss this with you first.