Sarah asked
I took ellaone 3 months ago and my period is delayed 4 days per month and now I'm not getting it.
Answer
We have written a few articles regarding the emergency contraceptive ella (also known as ellaOne), which can be found here:
To summarize those articles, yes, taking ella can absolutely can cause a delay in the time you normally get your period. In fact, over 19% of women who take ella report have their period (i.e. menses) delayed by more than 7 days. Some individuals will miss their period altogether the month they take ellla.
The prescribing information for ella (ulipristal acetate) recommends that if your period is more than 7 days later than expected, it is important to take a pregnancy test. Having your period delayed, or not come at all, does not necessarily mean you are pregnant (remember over 19% of women have delayed or no menses after taking ella!). Taking a test is simply to rule out the chance of pregnancy.
In terms of the effects of ella on your period lasting more than 1 month, this is uncommon. The prescribing information states that for most women, their menstrual cycle returned to normal the next month.
However, based on how ella works, it stands to reason that there could be some changes to the menstrual cycle that last for extended periods of time for some individuals. Ella binds to progesterone receptors very strongly, which is also the site of action of birth control pills. Essentially, the hormones from your birth control pills will be displaced by ella. For some, even small changes in your usual schedule of birth control pills can have an impact that lasts for months.
As you are having continued issues with an irregular menstrual cycle, it is important to let your doctor know so you can be properly evaluated.
