I-Pill: Complete Guide to Using the Morning‑After Pill
September 21, 2025 posted by Arabella Simmons
I-Pill is a brand name for a levonorgestrel‑based emergency contraceptive pill that can prevent an unwanted pregnancy after unprotected sex. This guide breaks down everything you need to know - from timing and dosage to where you can get it in the UK, common side‑effects, and how it stacks up against other options.
TL;DR - Quick Takeaways
- Take the I‑Pill as soon as possible after unprotected sex - ideally within 12hours.
- One tablet works for up to 72hours; effectiveness drops from ~95% (within 12h) to ~58% (at 72h).
- Common side‑effects: nausea, tiredness, spotting; serious reactions are rare.
- Available without prescription at most pharmacies and online retailers in the UK; price ranges £20‑£35.
- Not a regular birth control method - use ongoing contraception for future protection.
How the I‑Pill Works and When It’s Effective
The I‑Pill contains 1.5mg of levonorgestrel, a synthetic progestogen. It mainly works by:
- Delaying ovulation so the egg isn’t released in time for fertilisation.
- Thickening cervical mucus to hinder sperm movement.
- Altering the uterine lining, making it less receptive to a fertilised egg.
If fertilisation has already occurred and the embryo has implanted, the I‑Pill will not terminate a pregnancy.
Timing is crucial. Studies from the UK’s NHS and the WHO show the following effectiveness rates:
| Time After Intercourse | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| 0‑12hours | ~95% |
| 12‑24hours | ~85% |
| 24‑48hours | ~75% |
| 48‑72hours | ~58% |
Because effectiveness drops sharply after 72hours, treat the I‑Pill as an emergency, not a standby option.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Take the I‑Pill Correctly
- Buy the pill. You can purchase it in person at any pharmacy (Walk‑in or through a pharmacist) or order it online from a reputable UK retailer.
- Read the patient information leaflet (PIL) thoroughly. It outlines dosage, possible interactions, and what to do if you vomit within two hours of taking the pill.
- Take the tablet with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food - food does not affect absorption.
- If you vomit within two hours, repeat the dose with a new tablet.
- Monitor for side‑effects over the next 24‑48hours. Most symptoms are mild and resolve without treatment.
- Schedule a routine contraception method (e.g., combined oral contraceptive, implant) if you need ongoing protection.
Do NOT take a second I‑Pill as a “double dose” hoping for extra protection. This won’t increase effectiveness and raises the risk of side‑effects.
Side‑Effects, Risks, and Who Should Avoid the I‑Pill
Most users experience only mild, short‑lived symptoms:
- Nausea (≈25% of users)
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting or light bleeding (particularly if taken close to your expected period)
Serious adverse events (allergic reaction, severe abdominal pain) are extremely rare - less than 1 in 10,000 users.
Contra‑indications (situations where the I‑Pill should be avoided or used with caution):
- Known sensitivity to levonorgestrel or any pill component.
- Current pregnancy - the pill offers no benefit and should not be taken.
- Severe liver disease - metabolism may be impaired.
If you have a history of blood clots, hormone‑sensitive cancers, or are on medications that interfere with hormonal contraception (e.g., some antiretrovirals, epilepsy drugs), discuss alternatives with a pharmacist or GP.
Where to Get the I‑Pill in the UK and What It Costs
In England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the I‑Pill is classified as a pharmacy‑only medicine (POM). You do not need a prescription, but a pharmacist must see you to ensure safe use.
Typical price points (as of September2025):
- High‑street pharmacy: £23‑£30 per pack.
- Online pharmacies (e.g., LloydsPharmacy, Chemist Direct): £20‑£27, often with free delivery on orders over £30.
- Student health services at universities may offer it free or at a reduced cost.
Most NHS sexual health clinics provide the I‑Pill free of charge, especially for those under 25 or on low incomes. It’s worth calling ahead to confirm availability.
Comparing I‑Pill to Other Emergency Contraceptives
While the I‑Pill (levonorgestrel) is the most widely used, two other options exist:
| Product | Active Ingredient | Effective Window | Typical Cost (UK) | Key Pros |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I‑Pill | Levonorgestrel 1.5mg | Up to 72h | £20‑£30 | Readily available, no prescription |
| Ulipristal (EllaOne) | Ulipristal acetate 30mg | Up to 120h | £30‑£45 | Higher efficacy at 72‑120h |
| Copper IUD (Paragard) | Non‑hormonal device | Up to 5days | £150‑£250 (incl. insertion) | Most effective, provides ongoing contraception |
If you’re beyond the 72‑hour window, consider ulipristal or a copper IUD. They maintain higher efficacy up to five days after intercourse.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I take the I‑Pill if I’m already on the birth‑control pill? Yes, but it may disrupt your regular pill schedule. Take the I‑Pill as soon as possible, then continue with your regular pack; you might need to use a backup method for the next seven days.
- Will the I‑Pill affect my next period? It can cause your period to arrive a few days early or late. If your period is more than a week late, take a pregnancy test.
- Is it safe to take the I‑Pill while breastfeeding? Levonorgestrel passes into breast milk in minimal amounts and is considered safe for nursing mothers, but discuss with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
- What should I do if I vomit within two hours of taking the pill? Take a second tablet as soon as you can. This ensures you receive the full dose.
- Can men purchase the I‑Pill for their partners? Yes, the pharmacy can sell it to anyone over 16, regardless of gender.
Next Steps: What to Do After Taking the I‑Pill
1. Monitor for side‑effects. Most resolve within 48hours. If severe vomiting, heavy bleeding, or signs of an allergic reaction occur, seek medical help.
2. Consider ongoing contraception. The I‑Pill is a one‑off solution. Options include the combined pill, the implant, or the injection. Choose what fits your lifestyle.
3. Plan a follow‑up. If your next period is more than a week late, take a home pregnancy test. If the test is positive, book an appointment with your GP or a family planning clinic.
4. Educate yourself about sexual health resources. NHS England offers free confidential advice, and many charities (e.g., Brook, Planned Parenthood UK) provide online chat services.
Armed with this information, you can make an informed decision about using the I‑Pill and avoid an unwanted pregnancy with confidence.
I-Pill emergency contraception morning after pill how to use I-Pill I-Pill side effects