WOMEN and teenagers worried their festive fling could turn into a nativity nightmare can now get the morning-after pill for free.

High spirits and hi-jinks at Christmas and new year parties could leave them with an unwanted pregnancy.

Now help is at hand from 18 Swansea community pharmacies that are offering a free emergency contraception service to make it easier for women to act fast.

An Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board spokeswoman said: "At this time of year, with the Christmas and new year party season in full swing, the chances of unplanned pregnancies may be higher.

"However, access to emergency contraception is now easier in the city than ever before, with a string of accredited and specially trained pharmacists offering emergency contraception for free. The service is also available to under-16s, offering a practical support to help avoid teen pregnancies."

Steve Newbury, of Newbury's Pharmacy in Mumbles, one of the 18 taking part, explained the procedure involved in the service.

"Emergency hormonal contraception, or EHC, can be used to stop you getting pregnant if your contraception has failed or not been used.

"It is often referred to as the morning-after pill. It can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex.

"But the sooner it is taken the more effective it is at preventing pregnancy, and it does not work after 72 hours.

"This new service, which is provided by community pharmacists, aims to increase the availability and accessibility of free EHC, which until recently was only available from sexual health clinics, GPs and A&E departments."

The service is available to anyone who thinks they may need EHC, including under-16s.

"Before they are given EHC they will have to answer a few questions to see if it is suitable for them," said the ABM spokeswoman.

"This will be entirely confidential and the information will not be shared with anyone else, unless this is agreed with them.

"If the pharmacist is unable to supply EHC they will refer them to an alternative healthcare professional or service."

EHC is available from other pharmacists for £25, but cannot be sold to under-16s.

Details of the pharmacies involved can be found at www.abm.wales.nhs.uk