Lisa asked
Hello! I have a question regarding the contraception pill Ellaone. I had unprotected sex on May 20th. The beginning of my last menstruation was May 6th and last for 4 days. Therefore, I suppose, I had an ovulation on May 20th, the day of unprotected sex. I took Ellaone pill on May 21st, 30 hours later the intercourse. And then I took the second pill of Ellaone on May 23d. I heard that emergency morning pill doesn't work if ovulation has occurred, but in instruction it says that there is 120 hours window when I can take the pill. Also, I heard that Ellaone postpones ovulation and also can prevent fertilized egg from implantation. Am I in high risk of getting pregnant?
Answer
Ella, also known as EllaOne in the European Union, is an emergency contraceptive pill that contains ulipristal acetate, a progesterone receptor modulator. It works by delaying or inhibiting ovulation and also may cause changes to the endometrium, making implantation difficult for a fertilized egg.
How Long Does Ella Work For?
Taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, pregnancy rates are about 1.4%. Unlike Plan B (levonorgestrel), which only works for up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, clinical trials for Ella show that is maintains efficacy for up to 5 days (120 hours), with a pregnancy rate of approximately 1.6% when taken in this time frame.
How Do You Take Ella?
- Take one Ella tablet as soon as possible (within 120 hours) of unprotected sex. It can be taken with or without food.
- If vomiting occurs within 3 hours of taking the tablet, Repeat the dose.
Additional Information
Unlike many emergency contraceptive pills, Ella does not need to be re-dosed and is effective as a single dose. Re-dosing is only necessary if there is an impediment to absorption of the medication, such as vomiting within 3 hours of taking it.
The main mechanism of action to prevent pregnancy for Ella is to inhibit ovulation. However, if you have already ovulated, it still may be effective as it is thought to alter the endometrium, which could prevent implantation of a fertilized egg. It is for this reason that Ella is recommended to be taken at any time during your menstrual cycle.
After taking Ella, if menses is delayed by a week or more than usual, it is recommended to take a pregnancy test or see your doctor.
