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Condoms and Emergency Contraception

How effective are condoms?

Male condoms are 86 - 98% effective at preventing pregnancy, as long as they are put on correctly, are in date, have a kite mark or CE mark and have been stored properly so there are no rips in them. They have the added bonus of protecting you against sexually transmitted infections. 

What do I do if the condom breaks?

Emergency contraception is available to women who have had unprotected sex. If a condom splits or comes off, you should get emergency contraception as soon as possible. Most people know emergency contraception as the 'morning after pill' but it can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex - although the sooner it is taken the more effective it is. Even after 72 hours there are still other options available which can be effective up to 5 days after, so if you've had unprotected sex, don't be put off going for help.

You can get emergency contraception from:

• High street chemists/pharmacies 

• Your doctor

• Sexual health clinics

*Other forms of emergency contraception after 72 hours are also available from these places.