ella – Ulipristal Acetate (Prescription Only): Advanced Emergency Contraception
ella is a prescription-only emergency contraceptive pill that contains Ulipristal Acetate (30 mg). It is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom or missed birth control pills. Unlike over-the-counter options like Plan B, ella remains effective for up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected intercourse.
💊 What Is ella and How Does It Work?
ella is classified as a selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM). It works by:
- Delaying ovulation, even if the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge has already begun
- Preventing fertilization by altering hormone signals
- Possibly changing the endometrial lining to hinder implantation
This makes ella more effective than Levonorgestrel-based pills, especially during the fertile window.
❗ ella is not an abortion pill and will not affect an existing pregnancy.
🕒 Effectiveness of ella
- Most effective within 24–72 hours, but works up to 120 hours (5 days)
- Retains high effectiveness throughout the 5-day window
- Works even closer to ovulation, unlike Levonorgestrel pills
- Shown to be more effective than Plan B, especially for women with BMI over 25
🌟 Benefits of ella Emergency Contraception
- Longer window of effectiveness: Up to 5 days
- Prescription strength: More reliable in later stages of the cycle
- Effective for higher BMI individuals
- Single-dose pill
⚠️ Side Effects of ella
While generally well-tolerated, some users may experience:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Temporary changes in menstrual cycle
If vomiting occurs within 3 hours, contact your doctor—you may need another dose.
🚫 Important Warnings and Limitations
- Requires a prescription in the U.S.
- Not for routine birth control use
- May interact with hormonal contraceptives—avoid using other hormonal methods for at least 5 days after taking ella
- Does not protect against STIs
🛒 Where to Get ella
Because ella is a prescription-only medication, you can get it from:
- Healthcare providers (in-person or via telehealth)
- Local and online pharmacies (with prescription)
- Clinics such as Planned Parenthood
❓FAQs About ella (Ulipristal Acetate)
Q1: How is ella different from Plan B?
A: ella contains Ulipristal Acetate and is effective up to 120 hours after sex, while Plan B contains Levonorgestrel and is recommended within 72 hours.
Q2: Do I need a prescription to get ella?
A: Yes, ella is not available over the counter. A prescription is required in the U.S.
Q3: Can I take ella more than once in a cycle?
A: It’s safe, but repeated use in a cycle may disrupt your menstrual pattern. It should not replace regular birth control.
Q4: Does ella work if I’m overweight?
A: Yes, ella is more effective for women with BMI over 25, compared to Levonorgestrel-based pills.
Q5: Can I take my birth control pills after taking ella?
A: Wait 5 days before restarting hormonal birth control, as it may interfere with ella’s action.
Q6: Will ella harm an existing pregnancy?
A: No. ella is not an abortion pill and does not harm an ongoing pregnancy.
📚 Sources / Scientific References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – ella (Ulipristal Acetate) Label
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) – Emergency Contraception
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Emergency Contraception Factsheet
- Princeton University – Emergency Contraception: ella
- Planned Parenthood – Emergency Contraception Options