Ella: Effectiveness, How It Works, Side Effects, and More

Ella is an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraception failure. It contains a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone, which works by preventing ovulation, fertilization of an egg, or implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus.

Ella is available in a single-dose tablet and is taken by mouth within five days (120 hours) of unprotected sex. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it is.

How Effective Is Ella?

Ella is effective in preventing pregnancy, but not 100% foolproof. The exact effectiveness of Ella can vary depending on a few factors, including the time it is taken after unprotected sex and the method of contraception that failed.

If taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex, Ella is about 95% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, if taken between 24 and 72 hours, the effectiveness drops to around 85%. After 72 hours, the effectiveness is about 62%.

Ella is more effective than the older ECP brand, Plan B One-Step, which contains a different type of progesterone called levonorgestrel. Plan B One-Step is about 89% effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.

How Does Ella Work?

Ella works by preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation). It also thickens the mucus in the cervix to make it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. If ovulation has already occurred, Ella may prevent fertilization of the egg or prevent the fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.

Side Effects of Ella

The side effects of Ella are generally minor and go away on their own. The most common side effects include:

* Nausea

* Lower abdominal pain

* Breakthrough bleeding or spotting

* Headache

* Breast tenderness

* Dizziness

* Fatigue

In some cases, Ella may cause more serious side effects, such as:

* Allergic reaction

* Difficulty breathing

* Chest pain

* Fainting

* Jaundice

* Liver damage

If you experience any of the above side effects, it is important to see a doctor right away.

How to Take Ella

Ella should be taken as soon as possible within 120 hours (five days) of unprotected sex. The sooner you take it, the more effective it will be.

Ella can be taken with or without food. However, certain medications, such as antibiotics, HIV drugs, and antifungals, may interact with Ella and reduce its effectiveness. If you are taking any of these medications, it is important to tell your doctor before taking Ella.

Conclusion

Ella is a safe and effective ECP that can help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraception failure. It is important to take Ella as soon as possible within 120 hours of unprotected sex to ensure the best chance of preventing pregnancy.

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