Ella Pill – What You Need To Know

What is Ella pill? – Emergency Contraception Singapore

The Ella pill (ulipristal) is a type of emergency oral contraception, known also as the “morning-after pill”. It is relatively safe and effective, and lowers the chance of unintended pregnancy by about 85 percent if taken within 5 days after unprotected sex. The sooner you take the pill, the more effective it is.

How does Ella pill work?

Ella pill works by delaying or preventing ovulation i.e. release of an egg. It may also make it harder for a fertilised egg to attach to the uterus. If you are already pregnant, it will have no effect on termination of your existing pregnancy. Do not use it if you are already pregnant or if you might be pregnant.

When does Ella pill not work?

Ella pill does not work if taken more than five days after unprotected sex. Some drugs might affect the effectiveness of Ella, such as antiepileptic medications and certain HIV medications. This list is not complete and you should check with your doctor if the medications or supplements you are taking might affect the effectiveness of Ella.

If your next menses is more than one week late, or missed entirely, you will require a pregnancy test to make sure you are not pregnant.

What are the side effects of the pill?

The most common side effects of Ella are headache, nausea and lethargy. If vomiting occurs within 2-3 hours after taking the pill, a second dose of the pill may be required.

Other common side effects include abdominal cramping, as well as changes in one’s menstrual bleeding patterns such as spotting. Your menses should still come within a week from the expected date.

If you are worried about preventing an unintended pregnancy and are considering emergency contraception, you may wish to give any of our clinics a call or come down for a consultation with our doctors who will be glad to advise you further.