Emergency Contraception at the Pharmacy in Waterloo

Time matters when it comes to emergency contraception. At Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo, you can get the morning after pill quickly, discreetly, and without a prescription. In Ontario, emergency contraception is available directly from the pharmacist — no doctor's visit required.

Under Ontario's Minor Ailments Program, pharmacists can also assess and provide emergency contraception as part of a comprehensive consultation — free with your OHIP card. Walk in any time during our pharmacy hours and speak with one of our pharmacists.

What Is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception (EC) is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (such as a broken condom or missed pill). It is not an abortion pill — it works by delaying or preventing ovulation and does not interrupt an established pregnancy.

There are two main types of emergency contraception available in Canada:

• Levonorgestrel (Plan B, Next Choice) — a progestin pill most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex, though it can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) with reduced effectiveness
• Ulipristal acetate (Ella) — a prescription EC pill that maintains effectiveness for the full 120 hours (5 days) and is more effective than levonorgestrel later in the window; your pharmacist can prescribe this under the Minor Ailments Program

The Sooner, the Better

Emergency contraception is most effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex:

• Within 24 hours: up to 95% effective
• Within 72 hours: up to 85% effective
• Up to 120 hours: still provides meaningful protection

Don't wait. Walk in to Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo today.

What to Expect at the Pharmacy

Emergency contraception is treated with complete discretion and without judgment at Boardwalk Pharmacy. Your pharmacist will:

• Have a brief, private conversation to understand your situation and timing
• Help determine which option is best for you (levonorgestrel vs. ulipristal acetate)
• Provide or prescribe the appropriate medication
• Counsel you on what to expect, potential side effects, and follow-up contraception
• Discuss your ongoing contraceptive options if desired

Private, Non-Judgmental Care — Covered by OHIP

The Minor Ailments pharmacist assessment for emergency contraception is free with your OHIP card. Levonorgestrel EC (Plan B) is available without a prescription; ulipristal acetate (Ella) requires a prescription which your pharmacist can provide. Both are available same day.

There is no age restriction, no requirement to explain yourself, and no judgment. Our pharmacists are here to help you, professionally and with care. Walk in to Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo any time during pharmacy hours.