Taking the morning after pill can be an emotional and sometimes stressful experience, especially when you're not sure what to expect afterwards. At Southdowns Pharmacy, we speak to many people who want clear, honest information about how the morning after pill works and what kind of side effects are normal.

One of the most common questions we’re asked is: how long do morning after pill side effects last? In this post, we’ll explain the typical timeline for common symptoms like nausea, cramping, spotting, and delayed periods. We'll also let you know when it's time to seek advice and how our pharmacy team can help, including access to free emergency contraception services through the NHS.

What Is the Morning After Pill?

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

Levonorgestrel (brand names include Levonelle): effective up to 72 hours after sex

Ulipristal acetate (brand name EllaOne): effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after sex

Both pills work by delaying ovulation and preventing fertilisation. They are not abortion pills and will not work if you are already pregnant.

Common Morning After Pill Side Effects

Most people tolerate the morning after pill well, but like all medicines, it can cause some short-term side effects. These vary depending on the individual and the type of pill taken, but typical symptoms include:

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Lower abdominal pain or cramping

  • Headache or dizziness

  • Tender breasts

  • Fatigue

  • Spotting or light bleeding

  • Changes to your next period

Common morning after pill side effects.

How Long Do Side Effects Last?

For most people, side effects are mild and temporary, resolving within a few hours to a few days.

Nausea and vomiting

This usually starts within a few hours of taking the pill and may last for up to 24 hours. If you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, you should return to the pharmacy, as it may not have worked and a repeat dose or alternative method may be required.

Cramping or lower abdominal pain

You might notice period-like cramps within 24 to 48 hours. This discomfort is usually short-lived and can be eased with paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed.

Spotting or light bleeding

Some people experience light spotting or bleeding between periods. This can happen a few days after taking the pill and may last for up to a week. It’s generally nothing to worry about, but if it becomes heavy or prolonged, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Changes to your period

Your next period may be earlier or later than expected, and the flow might be lighter or heavier than usual. Most people get their period within a week of the expected date, but if it’s more than seven days late, it’s important to take a pregnancy test.

When to Seek Advice

Although most side effects are manageable, there are times when it’s best to check in with a healthcare professional:

  • You vomited within two hours of taking the pill

  • You experience severe abdominal pain (which could indicate an ectopic pregnancy)

  • Your period is more than a week late

  • You have unusual or heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop

  • You’re unsure whether the pill has worked

At Southdowns Pharmacy, we’re always here to answer your questions—no judgement, just trusted advice. You don’t need an appointment to speak to our trained team about emergency contraception, side effects, or what to do next.

Free Emergency Contraception from Southdowns Pharmacy

If you’re eligible, we offer free emergency contraception as part of our NHS pharmacy services. That includes:

  • Private consultation in a confidential setting

  • Advice on the most suitable pill for you (EllaOne or Levonorgestrel)

  • Discussion about ongoing contraception options

  • Follow-up support if you’re worried about any side effects

Our aim is to make emergency contraception as accessible and stress-free as possible. We know it can be a sensitive situation, so everything we do is handled with compassion and discretion.

Unusual morning after pill side effects

What Else You Should Know

The morning after pill is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. It’s not meant to be used as a regular contraceptive method, but it’s safe to take more than once if needed. However, repeated use may lead to irregular periods and more noticeable side effects.

To reduce the need for emergency contraception in the future, speak to our team about long-term options such as the contraceptive pill, patch, injection, or IUD. We can refer you to the appropriate NHS services or offer support depending on what’s available in your area.

Know What to Expect

Worrying about morning after pill side effects is completely normal, but for most people, they are mild, manageable, and short-lived. Knowing what to expect (and when to seek help) can make the experience far less stressful.

At Southdowns Pharmacy, we’re here to guide you through emergency contraception with friendly advice and free NHS access where eligible. If you have questions about side effects, missed periods, or need to take the pill again, come and speak to us in store today. We’re here to support your health and peace of mind, every step of the way.

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