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

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After taking Ella (ulipristal acetate), an emergency contraceptive pill, it is important to understand how it works and what effects it may have on your menstrual cycle. Ella is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. It works primarily by delaying or inhibiting ovulation, which means that if you take it before ovulation, it can prevent the egg from being released and thus reduce the chance of fertilization.

In your case, since you had unprotected intercourse on March 13, which was during your estimated ovulation period (March 11-16), taking Ella as soon as possible was a good decision. The effectiveness of Ella is highest when taken before ovulation, and it can still be effective if taken shortly after ovulation, but its efficacy diminishes as ovulation approaches.

Regarding your menstrual cycle, it is common for emergency contraceptive pills to cause some changes. After taking Ella, some women may experience a delay in their next period, while others may have their period arrive earlier than expected. The delay can be due to the hormonal changes induced by the medication, which can affect the timing of ovulation and the subsequent menstrual cycle.
Typically, a delay of a few days (up to a week) can be considered normal after taking Ella. However, if your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy, as no contraceptive method is 100% effective.
In summary, while Ella is effective in preventing pregnancy, it can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle, including delays. If you experience a delay of more than a week, it would be prudent to take a pregnancy test. If you have any concerns or if your menstrual cycle remains irregular, consulting with a healthcare provider would be beneficial for further evaluation and guidance.