What is EllaOne?
EllaOne is an emergency contraceptive (commonly known as the morning after pill) used to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It contains ulipristal acetate 30mg, which works by delaying or preventing ovulation. EllaOne is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, but can be used up to 120 hours (5 days) afterwards.
Who is the ideal candidate for EllaOne?
EllaOne is suitable for women of reproductive age who:
- Have had unprotected sex
- Have experienced contraceptive failure, such as a missed pill or condom breakage
- Are looking for a reliable emergency contraceptive option
Who is not suitable for EllaOne Use?
EllaOne will not be suitable for you if you:
- Are already pregnant
- Have severe asthma that is treated with oral glucocorticoids
- Have a rare hereditary problem of galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption
Our trained clinicians will review your health and medical history to ensure EllaOne is safe and appropriate for you.
How does EllaOne work to prevent pregnancy and how effective is it?
EllaOne contains ulipristal acetate, which delays or inhibits ovulation . By preventing or postponing ovulation, it reduces the chance of fertilisation. EllaOne is not effective if you are already pregnant and will not harm an existing pregnancy.
EllaOne is the most effective morning after pill, designed to reduce the chance of pregnancy by up to 98% when taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex. It can be used up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex, but the sooner you take it, the better it works. ellaOne is around 2.5 times more effective than levonorgestrel-based pills at preventing pregnancy
How do I take EllaOne?
- Take one tablet as soon as possible after unprotected sex (ideally within 24 hours, but no later than 120 hours or 5 days).
- EllaOne can be taken with or without food.
- If you vomit within 3 hours of taking EllaOne, contact a healthcare professional as you may need to take another dose.
What are the main side effects of EllaOne?
Like all medicines, EllaOne can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them, These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. Common side effects include:
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Breast tenderness
Will EllaOne affect my future fertility?
EllaOne is intended for occasional use as an emergency contraceptive and does not affect long-term fertility. It does not provide ongoing contraception, so you should consider starting or continuing a regular contraceptive method.
What else should I know about EllaOne?
EllaOne does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Your next period may come earlier or later than usual. If your period is more than 7 days late or is unusually light or heavy, take a pregnancy test.
EllaOne should not be used more than once in the same menstrual cycle.
Where can I get EllaOne?
Ordering EllaOne is simple. Complete our short online medical questionnaire. Our experienced clinicians will assess whether EllaOne is suitable for you. If approved, your medicine can be delivered discreetly to your door or collected from The Kingston Pharmacy.
