Could Ella Delay My Period? Pregnancy Signs and Contraception - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Ella, also known as ulipristal acetate, is an emergency contraceptive pill that can be taken after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. It is effective when taken within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex and works primarily by delaying or inhibiting ovulation. However, it can also affect your menstrual cycle, leading to changes in the timing and flow of your period.

In your case, you mentioned that your menstrual cycle is typically around 28-30 days, with your last menstrual period starting on March 16 and ovulation expected around March 31. After taking Ella on April 1, you have experienced a delay in your period. This delay could indeed be influenced by the use of Ella. Emergency contraceptives like Ella can cause hormonal fluctuations that may lead to changes in your menstrual cycle, including delays or irregularities.

It is important to note that while Ella is effective in preventing pregnancy, it is not 100% guaranteed. You mentioned that you took pregnancy tests on April 1, April 4, April 10, and April 14, all of which returned negative results. Given that you took Ella shortly after unprotected intercourse, it is likely that the pill worked to prevent pregnancy. However, if your period does not arrive soon, it may be advisable to wait a few more days and then take another pregnancy test, as it can take some time for the hormone levels to stabilize and for a test to accurately reflect a pregnancy.

In addition to hormonal effects from Ella, other factors could contribute to a delayed period. Stress, changes in routine, illness, or significant changes in weight can all impact your menstrual cycle. Since you mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse almost daily from March 25 to March 31, it is also possible that the stress of the situation, combined with the hormonal changes from taking Ella, could be affecting your cycle.

If your period does not arrive within a week or two, or if you continue to have concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a more thorough evaluation, including a blood test for pregnancy, and help determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, Ella can indeed delay your period due to its hormonal effects. While the negative pregnancy tests are reassuring, it is essential to monitor your cycle and consult a healthcare professional if your period remains absent or if you have further concerns. Remember that while emergency contraception is a useful tool, it is not intended for regular use, and establishing a reliable contraceptive method is important for future sexual health.