Effectiveness of Ella Ulipristal Acetate for Emergency Contraception During Ovulation

Ella Ulipristal Acetate 30 mg Emergency Contraceptive Pill (during the fertile window)

Hello doctor, I had ejaculation inside during the fertile window.
About 51 hours later, I took Ella (Ulipristal Acetate 30 mg) as an emergency contraceptive.
What is the effectiveness of this contraceptive? I found online that ELLA is effective for up to 120 hours after intercourse, and I would like to know how effective ELLA is against the risk of pregnancy from ejaculation during the fertile window.
Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/28

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills taken within three days is approximately 97%.
The effectiveness decreases over time, with studies in Canada showing about 90% effectiveness when taken between three to five days.
There is currently no data on effectiveness beyond that timeframe, and human trials cannot be conducted.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2018/02/28

More Info

Ella (Ulipristal Acetate) is a prescription medication used for emergency contraception. It is particularly effective when taken after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom, especially during the fertile window of a woman's menstrual cycle. The effectiveness of Ella is a crucial topic, especially when considering its use during ovulation.

Ella works primarily by delaying or inhibiting ovulation. If taken before ovulation, it can prevent the release of an egg from the ovary, thereby reducing the chance of fertilization. However, if ovulation has already occurred, the effectiveness of Ella diminishes significantly. Studies have shown that Ella can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected intercourse, but its efficacy is highest when taken as soon as possible after the event.

In your case, taking Ella approximately 51 hours after unprotected intercourse during your fertile window means that there is still a chance of preventing pregnancy, but the effectiveness may be lower than if it had been taken earlier. Research indicates that Ella maintains a relatively high efficacy rate even when taken during the ovulation period, but it is not guaranteed to prevent pregnancy if ovulation has already occurred and the egg has been fertilized.

The effectiveness of Ella is estimated to be around 85% when taken within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, and it may still be effective up to 120 hours, but the likelihood of preventing pregnancy decreases as time passes. Therefore, while Ella can still provide some level of protection after 51 hours, it is essential to understand that no emergency contraceptive is 100% effective, especially if ovulation has already taken place.

In terms of side effects, some women may experience nausea, fatigue, headache, or changes in their menstrual cycle after taking Ella. It is also important to note that Ella does not provide ongoing contraception and should not be used as a regular contraceptive method.

If you have concerns about the effectiveness of Ella or experience any unusual symptoms after taking it, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current situation. Additionally, if your menstrual period is delayed by more than a week after taking Ella, a pregnancy test is recommended to rule out pregnancy.

In summary, while Ella can be effective for emergency contraception during ovulation, its efficacy is not guaranteed, especially if ovulation has already occurred. Taking it as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse is crucial for maximizing its effectiveness. Always consult with a healthcare professional for tailored advice and follow-up care.

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