Emergency Contraception: What to Expect After Taking Ella - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Emergency contraception, particularly Ella (ulipristal acetate), is a medication used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. It's important to understand how it works, what to expect after taking it, and the implications for your menstrual cycle.

When you take Ella, it works primarily by delaying or inhibiting ovulation. If you take it before ovulation, it can effectively prevent the egg from being released from the ovary. However, if ovulation has already occurred, Ella may not be effective. Since you took Ella shortly after the condom broke, you acted promptly, which is crucial for the effectiveness of emergency contraception.

After taking Ella, many women experience changes in their menstrual cycle. It is common for your next period to come earlier or later than expected. Generally, you can expect your period to arrive within a week or so of when it typically would. However, some women report that their period may be delayed by a few days or even a week or two. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.

Regarding the possibility of pregnancy, since you did not have ejaculation and took Ella soon after the contraceptive failure, the likelihood of becoming pregnant is low. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and factors such as timing and individual hormonal responses can influence the outcome.
In addition to changes in your menstrual cycle, some women may experience side effects after taking Ella. These can include nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, or changes in mood. These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days.

If you find that your period is significantly delayed or if you experience unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain or heavy bleeding, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can provide further evaluation and guidance.

In summary, after taking Ella, you can expect your menstrual cycle to be affected, with your period potentially arriving earlier or later than usual. The risk of pregnancy is low given the circumstances, but monitoring your cycle and being aware of any unusual symptoms is important. If you have any concerns or if your period is significantly delayed, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.