When Should You Take Emergency Contraception? Timing MattersIf you’ve had unprotected sex or experienced contraceptive failure, emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy—but only if taken in time. The sooner you act, the more effective it is. Understanding when to take the morning-after pill and where to get emergency contraception quickly is crucial for making informed decisions. At Heald Green Pharmacy, we provide a confidential and supportive service, allowing you to collect emergency contraception in person without delay.
How Emergency Contraception Works
Emergency contraception helps prevent pregnancy by delaying or stopping ovulation. If ovulation has already occurred, emergency contraception may be less effective, which is why taking it as soon as possible is so important. There are two main types available:
The Morning-After Pill – The most common form of emergency contraception, available in two main types:
- Levonorgestrel (Levonelle) – Works best when taken within 12 hours but can be effective up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex.
- Ulipristal Acetate (ellaOne) – More effective than Levonelle, it can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.
These options can be purchased at Heald Green Pharmacy in Cheshire – you just need to complete a quick questionnaire before our team can prescribe medication.
The Copper IUD (Intrauterine Device) – A non-hormonal option that can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex. The copper IUD provides long-term birth control if left in place.
Why Timing is Crucial
The effectiveness of emergency contraception decreases over time:
Within 12 Hours: Highest effectiveness; reduces the chance of pregnancy significantly.
12-24 Hours: Still highly effective, but effectiveness slightly declines.
24-48 Hours: Levonelle may be less effective, but ellaOne remains a strong option.
48-72 Hours: Levonelle is nearing the limit of its effectiveness; ellaOne remains suitable.
72-120 Hours: Levonelle is no longer an option, but ellaOne or the copper IUD can still be used.
Since sperm can survive in the body for up to five days, delaying emergency contraception increases the risk of pregnancy. Acting fast ensures you have the best chance of preventing pregnancy.
Where to Get Emergency Contraception Quickly
Finding where to get emergency contraception quickly is essential when time is limited. In the UK, you can access the morning-after pill from several places:
Pharmacies – Many pharmacies offer emergency contraceptives without a prescription. At Heald Green Pharmacy, we provide a convenient drop-in service where you can collect the morning-after pill in person with expert guidance.
GP Surgeries – Some GPs can prescribe emergency contraceptive options, but availability depends on appointment schedules, which can cause delays.
NHS Walk-in Centres & A&E – Emergency contraceptive pills are available at NHS walk-in centres, but wait times vary.
Online Pharmacies – Some services offer emergency contraception via online prescription, but delivery times may not be suitable for urgent situations.
For the fastest access, visit Heald Green Pharmacy in person for support and advice.
What to Expect When Visiting Heald Green Pharmacy
If you need emergency contraception, simply drop into our pharmacy. Our trained pharmacists provide a discreet and confidential service to help you choose the right option. You do not need an appointment, and we can discuss your options, answer any concerns, and ensure you receive the medication safely.
When you visit, you may be asked a few questions about:
- The time of unprotected sex
- Your menstrual cycle
- Any medications you are taking
- Any health conditions that could affect the choice of contraception
This allows us to recommend the best option for you. If needed, we can also discuss longer-term contraception options to help prevent future emergencies.
What to Do After Taking Emergency Contraception
After taking emergency contraception, it’s essential to:
- Monitor for side effects such as nausea, headaches, or irregular bleeding.
- Take a pregnancy test if your period is more than a week late.
- Consider using regular contraception to avoid needing emergency contraception again.
- Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you experience severe side effects or ongoing concerns.
Fast and Confidential Support in Cheshire
Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible. If you’re wondering where to get emergency contraception, Heald Green Pharmacy provides a fast and confidential drop-in service in Cheshire so you can collect it in person without delay. Don’t wait—acting quickly increases the likelihood of preventing pregnancy. Visit us today for expert support and guidance.
This blog was written on behalf of Heald Green Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Improving Erectile Dysfunction by Addressing Health FactorsErectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue that affects men of all ages. While it can sometimes be caused by underlying medical conditions, lifestyle factors also play a major role in erectile health. If you’re struggling with ED, making certain lifestyle changes can significantly improve your sexual performance. At Heald Green Pharmacy, we’re committed to helping men take control of their health and find the best treatments, including erectile dysfunction gel, to support their well-being. This guide outlines the key factors that negatively impact erectile function and what you can do to improve your health.
Step 1: Address Underlying Health Conditions
Your overall health has a direct impact on erectile function. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease can all contribute to ED by affecting blood flow and nerve function. To support your overall health:
Get regular health check-ups – Visit your local pharmacist for routine health assessments, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks.
Manage chronic conditions – If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, work with a healthcare professional to keep them under control.
Maintain a healthy weight – Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, can reduce testosterone levels and impair circulation.
Step 2: Improve Blood Flow with Exercise
Poor circulation is one of the leading causes of erectile dysfunction. Exercise helps improve heart health, blood flow, and testosterone levels, all of which are crucial for strong and lasting erections. To improve your health, you can:
Incorporate aerobic exercise – Activities like brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or running can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of ED.
Strength training – Resistance exercises, such as weight lifting, can boost testosterone levels.
Start small and build up – Even 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day can make a significant difference.
Step 3: Quit Smoking and Reduce Alcohol Intake
Smoking damages blood vessels and restricts blood flow, which is essential for achieving and maintaining an erection. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can suppress testosterone levels and impact sexual performance. What you can do:
Quit smoking – If you smoke, seek professional support or nicotine replacement therapies to help you quit.
Limit alcohol intake – Stick to the recommended 14 units of alcohol per week and avoid binge drinking.
Stay hydrated – Dehydration can contribute to fatigue and poor circulation, both of which affect erectile function.
Step 4: Manage Stress and Mental Health
Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to ED. Performance anxiety, in particular, can create a cycle where worrying about erections leads to further difficulties. You can try:
Practising relaxation techniques – Mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
Seeking professional help – If you struggle with anxiety or depression, speak to a GP or therapist for support.
Communicating with your partner – Open discussions about concerns can reduce pressure and improve intimacy.
Step 5: Improve Your Diet for Better Sexual Health
Certain foods can boost circulation, improve heart health, and support testosterone production, all of which help combat erectile dysfunction. Changes you can make include:
Eat a balanced diet – Include lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats to maintain energy and overall health.
Increase intake of heart-healthy foods – Leafy greens, nuts, oily fish, and berries improve circulation.
Reduce processed foods and sugars – High sugar intake contributes to obesity and diabetes, which can worsen ED.
Step 6: Consider Medical Treatments Like Erectile Dysfunction Gel and Tablets
Lifestyle changes can greatly improve erectile function, but some men may still need additional support. Erectile dysfunction gel is a fast-acting, topical treatment that improves blood flow to the penis, helping achieve and maintain an erection. Another popular option is tablets, which can provide long-term success for some men. We recommend:
Consulting a pharmacist – Contact Heald Green Pharmacy for expert advice on ED treatments, including gels, tablets, and other medications.
Using erectile dysfunction gel as directed – Follow instructions carefully for optimal results.
Combining treatment with lifestyle improvements – ED gels work best when paired with a healthy lifestyle.
Take Control of Your Health
Erectile dysfunction can be influenced by various lifestyle factors, but the good news is that many of these are within your control. By managing your health, improving circulation, reducing stress, and considering medical treatments like erectile dysfunction gel, you can significantly enhance your sexual health and confidence.
At Heald Green Pharmacy, we provide expert guidance on erectile dysfunction treatments and offer discreet solutions to help you regain control of your sexual health. If you have concerns about ED, visit us today for personalised support and treatment options.
This blog was written on behalf of Heald Green Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
Premature Ejaculation: Causes and TreatmentAre you experiencing difficulties with Premature Ejaculation? In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and available treatments for this condition. Our team at Heald Green Pharmacy in Greater Manchester provides discreet and professional services to help manage this sensitive issue.
“At least 20% and possibly up to 75% of men will experience PE temporarily at some stage of their lives, most commonly in their 20s and 30s.”
What is Premature Ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation is a common problem that affects many men at some point in their lives. It occurs when a man ejaculates too quickly during sexual activity, typically one minute after penetration.
While this is often a source of embarrassment or shame, it’s important to remember that it’s a common issue that can be treated effectively. Understanding the causes is the first step to finding the best treatment options.
If you are experiencing premature ejaculation, know that you are not alone. In the next section, we’ll explore the most effective treatments and strategies to overcome this issue.
Causes of Premature Ejaculation
Premature ejaculation can be caused by several factors, including physical, physiological and emotional factors.
Physical causes may include:
– Hormonal Imbalances
– Prostate Issues
– Nerve Damage
While psychological factors may include anxiety, stress or relationship issues.
So what is the normal length for intercourse?
In a study of 500 couples from five different countries, the average time of vaginal intercourse up to the point of ejaculation (“intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT)” in science-speak) was found to be five-and-a-half minutes, and rarely to exceed 10 minutes.
And a study of Canadian and American sex therapists found that their opinions on the ‘adequate’ timing of intercourse to the point of ejaculation were three to seven minutes. Seven to 13 minutes was seen as desirable.
Not exactly like the movies, then.
How can it be treated?
Getting in touch with your doctor or a sexual health expert is one of the first steps towards overcoming premature ejaculation. They will be able to identify any underlying physical or psychological causes and suggest the best course of action. These may consist of either behavioural or medical interventions or both.
The start-stop method, in which the person pauses sexual activity to postpone ejaculation, or the squeeze technique, in which the base of the penis is squeezed to lessen arousal, are examples of behavioural techniques that can help to control premature ejaculation. For people who experience psychological or emotional causes of premature ejaculation, counselling or therapy may also be beneficial.
At Heald Green Pharmacy in Greater Manchester, we offer discreet and confidential sexual health services, including treatment for premature ejaculation. Our trained pharmacists can provide advice and guidance on the best treatments for your needs.
Treatment for Premature Ejaculation
Lifestyle Changes
In addition to seeking medical help, there are several lifestyle changes that can help improve sexual health and reduce the likelihood of premature ejaculation. These may include:
– Regular exercise
– Healthy eating habits
– Stress reduction techniques
– Getting enough sleep
Communicating with Your Partner
It’s important to express your worries to your partner openly and honestly and to work with them to find solutions. The ability to overcome premature ejaculation can be significantly impacted by a supportive and understanding partner.
Why You Should Choose Us
If you are struggling with premature ejaculation in Greater Manchester, Heald Green Pharmacy is here to support you. Our discreet and confidential sexual health services can provide the guidance you need, to overcome this issue and improve your sexual health and wellbeing.
This blog post was written on behalf of Heald Green Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
Where Can You Get Professional Support to Treat Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is a common problem for men. It can cause strain on your relationship, and psychosexual issues and affect your life in other ways too. It’s important to get help early on so that you can find solutions like medications or surgically implanted devices that will help improve your sex life again. Keep reading to learn the causes of erectile dysfunction and how to treat it at our pharmacy in Manchester.
What is erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is when a man has difficulty getting or keeping an erection. It can also be known as impotence or ED. Impotence is not the same as having erectile dysfunction (ED). ED occurs when a man doesn’t have an erection at all, while impotence is a symptom that affects overall sexual function.
What are the causes of erectile dysfunction?
There are many potential causes of ED, including both physical and psychological factors.
Physical causes of ED can include:
– Cardiovascular disease.
– Diabetes.
– High blood pressure.
– High cholesterol.
– Metabolic syndrome.
– Obesity.
– Parkinson’s disease.
– Multiple sclerosis.
– Peyronie’s disease.
– Sleep disorders.
– Testosterone deficiency.
– Trauma to the pelvic region.
– Substance abuse (alcohol, tobacco, drugs).
Psychological causes of ED can include:
– Depression.
– Anxiety.
– Stress.
– Relationship problems.
– Low self-esteem.
It’s also important to note that ED can be a side effect of certain medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure drugs.
If you are experiencing ED, it is recommended that you consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options. In some cases, simple lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and exercising regularly, may help improve ED symptoms. In other cases, medication or therapy may be necessary.
Can erectile dysfunction be brought on by stress?
Stress can be a factor that contributes to the development of erectile dysfunction (ED). It can interfere with the body’s ability to achieve an erection by affecting the hormonal and psychological processes that are involved in sexual arousal. When a person is under stress, the body releases stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can interfere with testosterone production and reduce blood flow to the penis, making it more difficult to achieve an erection.
How does medication cure erectile dysfunction?
Medication can help to improve blood flow to the penis, which in turn improves erections.
For example, there is a type of medication called sildenafil that is used for ED treatment. Sildenafil works by increasing blood flow to your penis so that it becomes harder during an erection (which makes sex feel better). Some patients will notice an improvement within hours of starting this type of drug; others may need a few weeks or even months before they notice any improvement in their condition.
How can you alleviate symptoms of erectile dysfunction?
Below are some of the ways you can alleviate the symptoms of erectile dysfunction:
– Lose weight. Erectile dysfunction is often caused by obesity, so losing some weight can help you feel better about yourself and your body.
– Eat healthily. You should also eat a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables to keep your heart healthy as well as reduce stress levels in your life that can cause erectile dysfunction symptoms such as loss of libido or low testosterone levels.
– Quit smoking. Get enough sleep every night (around 7-8 hours), especially if you suffer from insomnia or depression.
Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about other options besides medications like Viagra if those are not working for you.
Where can you go to diagnose the causes of erectile dysfunction in Manchester?
Book your consultation with Heald Green Pharmacy in Manchester or visit us today. Let us help diagnose what’s the cause behind your case and provide effective erectile dysfunction treatment.
This blog post was written on behalf of Heald Green Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
