Emergency Contraception
The Morning After Pill
This consists of hormones similar to those in birth control pills and should be taken within 72 hours of intercourse to be effective. It works by inhibiting ovulation (no egg released from ovary) or by delaying normal menstrual cycle along with ovulation or by irritating the lining of the uterus so that possibly conceived embryo can’t implant and is expelled. It will not harm an implanted embryo.
Seek medical attention if you experience severe lower abdominal pain 3 to 5 weeks after taking Plan B One-Step, in order to be evaluated for an ectopic pregnancy.
After taking Plan B One-Step, consider the possibility of pregnancy if your period is delayed more than one week beyond the date you expected your period.
Do not use Plan B One-Step as routine contraception.
Plan B One-Step is not effective in terminating an existing pregnancy.
Plan B One-Step does not protect against HIV-infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases/infections.
Possible risks/side effects may include heavier menstrual bleeding, nausea, lower abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness.
ELLA
This drug was approved in 8/2010 by FDA to be used to prevent or abort a pregnancy. The generic name is ulipristal acetate, and is a first cousin to RU 486. ELLA is typically used up to 5 days after intercourse. It works by either preventing ovulation (egg release) or by blocking progesterone which is necessary to maintain a pregnancy (keeps fertilized egg from implanting in the uterine wall causing an abortion-like action.)
Patients should seek medical attention if they experience severe lower abdominal pain 3 to 5 weeks after taking ella, in order to be evaluated for an ectopic pregnancy. Possible side effects/risks are headache, nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, dizziness.
Since this is a new drug, you may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
