• When to Use:
  
  
  • Ella should be used as soon as possible after unprotected sex, contraceptive failure, or sexual assault to prevent pregnancy. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it will be.
    
    
  • If your period is more than 5 days late or if you experience unusual symptoms, you may want to take a pregnancy test or consult your healthcare provider.
    
    
• After Taking Ella:
  
  
  • After taking Ella, you should not rely on it as a regular form of contraception. It is meant for emergency use only. For ongoing contraception, consider using a more regular method, such as birth control pills, IUD, or condoms.
    
    
  • If you take Ella and later find out you are pregnant, you should seek medical advice to confirm the pregnancy and evaluate options.
    
    
• Backup Contraception:
  
  
  • It is advised to use a barrier method (such as condoms) for the next 14 days after taking Ella or until your next menstrual period, as Ella may not be effective if you have unprotected sex during that time.
    
    

Ella works through its action on progesterone receptors in the body:

• Delaying Ovulation: Ulipristal acetate works by blocking or delaying the release of the egg from the ovary, preventing fertilization. This makes it less likely for the sperm to meet and fertilize an egg.
  
  
• Inhibition of Fertilization: By modifying the hormonal balance, Ella can affect the uterine lining, making it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant in the uterus.
  
  
• Effectiveness Window: Ella is effective within 120 hours after unprotected sex, but it is most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days). The earlier you take Ella after the contraceptive failure or unprotected intercourse, the better it will work.
  
  

It is important to note that Ella will not be effective if you are already pregnant and will not harm an existing pregnancy.

• Common Side Effects:
  
  
  • Headache
    
    
  • Nausea
    
    
  • Fatigue
    
    
  • Abdominal pain
    
    
  • Dizziness
    
    
  • Menstrual changes, including spotting or heavier periods
    
    
• These side effects are usually mild and temporary.
  
  
• Serious Side Effects (rare):
  
  
  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping
    
    
  • Allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing
    
    
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
    
    
• If you experience any of these more serious side effects, seek medical help immediately.
  
  

• Not for Regular Contraception: Ella is an emergency contraceptive and should not be used as a regular form of birth control. It is not as effective as regular contraceptive methods.
  
  
• Pregnancy: Ella will not work if you are already pregnant. If you suspect you are pregnant, you should not take Ella.
  
  
• Breastfeeding: Ulipristal acetate passes into breast milk, but it is considered safe for occasional use. However, consult with your healthcare provider before using it while breastfeeding.
  
  

Existing Health Conditions: If you have certain conditions, such as liver disease or severe asthma, consult your doctor before using Ella, as it may affect the way your body metabolizes the medication.

• Ella may interact with certain medications, which could reduce its effectiveness. These include:
  
  
  • Enzyme-inducing medications such as rifampin, phenytoin, and carbamazepine, which can reduce the effectiveness of Ella.
    
    
  • HIV medications, particularly protease inhibitors, may also reduce the effectiveness of the drug.
    
    
  • St. John’s Wort, a common herbal supplement, can interfere with the effectiveness of Ella.
    
    

It is important to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications or supplements you are taking before using Ella.

• Adults: One 30 mg tablet should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. The tablet is typically taken in one dose, but in some rare cases, a healthcare provider may recommend a second dose.
  
  

Adolescents and Children: Ella is approved for use in women and adolescents who are 12 years of age or older. It is not recommended for younger children or men.

Ella is a prescription medication, meaning it cannot be purchased over the counter in most countries. A healthcare provider will evaluate whether it is suitable for you based on your medical history and current health status. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible to ensure proper usage.

1. What is Ella?
   Ella is an emergency contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

2. How does Ella work?
   It delays or inhibits ovulation, preventing the release of an egg that could be fertilized.

3. When should Ella be taken?
   It should be taken as soon as possible, within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.

4. Is Ella more effective than levonorgestrel-based pills (like Plan B)?
   Yes, Ella is generally more effective, especially if taken closer to ovulation.

5. Can Ella be used as a regular birth control method?
   No, Ella is for emergency use only, not for routine contraception.

6. Do I need a prescription to get Ella?
   Yes, Ella requires a prescription in most countries.

7. What should I do if I vomit after taking Ella?
   If vomiting occurs within 3 hours of taking the pill, you should take another dose.

8. Does Ella protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
   No, Ella does not protect against HIV or other STIs.

9. What are the common side effects of Ella?
   Nausea, headache, abdominal pain, dizziness, and changes in menstrual cycle.

10. Can Ella delay my next period?
    Yes, your next period may come earlier or later than expected.

11. Can I take Ella while breastfeeding?
    Yes, but it is recommended to wait 1 week after taking Ella before resuming breastfeeding.

12. Can Ella be taken more than once in a menstrual cycle?
    It can be taken again if needed, but it is not recommended as a regular method.

13. Does Ella interact with other medications?
    Yes, some drugs (like certain seizure meds, antibiotics, and herbal remedies like St. John’s Wort) may reduce its effectiveness.

14. How effective is Ella?
    Ella can reduce the risk of pregnancy by about 85% if taken within 5 days.

15. Is Ella safe for teenagers?
    Yes, it is safe for women of reproductive age, including teenagers.

16. Can I buy Ella online?
    Yes, in some regions it is available through telehealth or online pharmacies with a prescription.

17. Does body weight affect Ella’s effectiveness?
    Yes, its effectiveness may be reduced in women with higher body weight or BMI.

18. Can I drink alcohol after taking Ella?
    Alcohol does not directly affect Ella, but it is best to avoid excessive drinking.

19. Is there a difference between Ella and Plan B?
    Yes—Ella contains ulipristal acetate, while Plan B contains levonorgestrel. Ella can be taken up to 5 days after, Plan B works best within 3 days.

20. When should I see a doctor after taking Ella?
    If your period is more than a week late, or if you experience severe abdominal pain (possible ectopic pregnancy), consult a doctor.