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Side effects of the emergency contraceptive pill (morning after pill)

Common side effects of the emergency contraceptive pill

The emergency contraceptive pill is very safe and serious side effects are rare.

Common side effects include:

  • headache
  • feeling sick (nausea)
  • period like pain and cramping

If you’re sick (vomit) within 2 hours after taking an emergency contraceptive pill, you may need to take another dose as soon as possible. Talk to a pharmacist to find out if you need another pill.

Page last reviewed: 9 February 2024
Next review due: 9 February 2027