Ella: Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraception? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to understanding the effectiveness of emergency contraception like Ella (ulipristal acetate), it's essential to consider several factors, including timing, the mechanism of action, and the nature of sperm viability.
Ella is designed to prevent pregnancy primarily by delaying or inhibiting ovulation. If taken before ovulation, it can effectively prevent the release of an egg, thereby reducing the chances of fertilization. However, if ovulation has already occurred, the effectiveness of Ella diminishes significantly. Research indicates that Ella can be taken 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, since you took Ella approximately two hours after unprotected intercourse, you maximized your chances of preventing pregnancy. However, if ovulation had already occurred at the time of intercourse, the likelihood of Ella preventing pregnancy decreases. It's important to note that sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, which means that if ovulation occurs within that timeframe, there is still a risk of pregnancy.

Regarding your question about masturbation after taking Ella, it is unlikely that this would affect the efficacy of the medication. Masturbation does not introduce new sperm into the vagina, and since Ella works primarily by preventing ovulation, any sperm that may have been present from the earlier intercourse would still be the primary concern. If you are engaging in masturbation without any new exposure to sperm, it should not increase your risk of pregnancy.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy after taking Ella, it is advisable to monitor your menstrual cycle. If your period is delayed by more than a week, you should take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.
In summary, while Ella is a highly effective emergency contraceptive when taken promptly, its effectiveness can be influenced by the timing of ovulation and the presence of viable sperm. If you have any further concerns or if your menstrual cycle does not return to normal, consulting with a healthcare provider would be a prudent step. They can provide personalized advice and support based on your specific situation.