Preventing unwanted pregnancy: emergency contraception

Contraceptive counselling should be individualised to the woman and her needs by taking a thorough medical history. Efficacy, risks and benefits must be discussed to ensure understanding. The UK Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use (UKMEC) may be consulted. The risk of sexually transmitted infections may need to be considered and this is particularly important in young people. Emergency hormonal contraception can be obtained from pharmacies, general practitioners and sexual health clinics.

In those under the age of 16, it is helpful to assess competence to consent to treatment. In these cases, the Fraser guidelines are a useful resource. It might be relevant to advise a young person of the law in relation to sexual activity.