Advice

SO YOU THINK YOU MIGHT BE PREGNANT

or most people pregnancy is something to celebrate with one of the first signs being a missed period.
If you are planning a pregnancy or think that you may be pregnant, the first thing to do is to take a pregnancy test a few days after your missed period. Pregnancy tests are available from your local pharmacy. If the test indicates that you are pregnant you should make an appointment with your Doctor to discuss the next stage. If the test is negative and your period is overdue by 7 days, you should also discuss this with your Doctor.

Emergency Hormonal Contraception
If you have had unprotected sex or you think that your contraception may have failed, there are steps you can take to prevent pregnancy occurring. One method is known as Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC). EHC is mainly prescribed by a doctor but is also available from Total Health Pharmacy. If you require EHC, our pharmacist will see you for a consultation in private before issuing any medication Depending on your circumstances, EHC may be supplied free of charge or may need to be purchased. This will be explained to you by the Pharmacist during the consultation.

Don’t Delay
Emergency Hormonal Contraception or ‘The Morning After Pill’ should be taken as soon as possible after sex but it can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. If it is longer than 72 hours since you had unprotected sex , don’t panic as other options may be appropriate. The Pharmacist will advise you of your options. Remember the sooner you act, the better your choices.
EHC is for emergency use only and should not be relied upon for a regular method of contraception.

Confidentiality
EHC is available to anyone from the age of 16 and your confidentiality is assured. If EHC is needed for under 16s, the Pharmacist will explain in detail the requirements. Either way, help is available so don’t be afraid to ask in confidence.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Condoms not only prevent pregnancy but more importantly protect you from STDs, especially Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and H.I.V. The Pharmacist can advised you on your options should you have had unprotected sex and think that you may be at risk.

Postal test kits for Chlamydia are available free of charge from Total Health Pharmacy – please ask the Pharmacist for advice.