ellaOne - Emergency Contraception

ellaOne is an over-the-counter emergency contraception pill. It can be taken to prevent pregnancy up to five days after unprotected sex, or if there has been a contraceptive failure, like a broken condom. ellaOne has a high effectiveness rate of up to 98%. The morning after pill should not be taken as a regular contraceptive method and is unsuitable for use more than once per menstrual cycle. ellaOne contains the hormone ulipristal acetate. It helps prevent the release of eggs from the ovaries during ovulation. It also reduces the chances of a fertilised egg implanting in the womb. Without the egg being fertilised and embryo implantation, a woman's pregnancy cannot take place.

What is ellaOne?

ellaOne is an emergency contraceptive pill that can be taken to prevent pregnancy up to five days after unprotected sex.

How effective is ellaOne?

ellaOne is up to 98% effective when taken as directed.

How does ellaOne work?

ellaOne contains ulipristal acetate, which prevents the release of eggs from the ovaries and reduces the chance of a fertilized egg implanting in the womb.

Can ellaOne be used as a regular contraceptive?

No, ellaOne should only be used as an emergency contraceptive and not as a regular method of contraception.

What should I do if I vomit after taking ellaOne?

If you vomit within three hours of taking ellaOne, it may not be effective. You will need to take another dose.

What are the possible side effects of ellaOne?

Side effects may include nausea, headache, abdominal pain, dizziness, and mood changes.

Can I take ellaOne at any point in my menstrual cycle?

Yes, ellaOne can be taken at any point in your menstrual cycle as long as it is within five days of unprotected sex.

Product warnings:

• - ellaOne should only be used as an emergency pill and should not replace your regular contraceptive method.
• - If you are sick or suffer from diarrhoea within 3 hours of taking ellaOne, it may not have been absorbed and will not be effective. You will need to obtain another supply as soon as possible.
• - ellaOne may cause your next period to come earlier, or to be more delayed than expected, and it may be heavier or lighter than usual.
• - Emergency contraception will not protect you for the rest of your cycle.
• - If your period is already late, you could be pregnant. Speak to a healthcare professional before taking ellaOne.

• - Take ellaOne as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
• - The pill remains effective as long as it is used within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.
• - Take ellaOne at any point in your cycle.

The active substance is ulipristal acetate. Each tablet contains 30 milligrams of ulipristal acetate. - The other ingredients are lactose monohydrate, povidone, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate.

Like any other medicine, ellaOne may cause some side effects, as indicated below:

• - Breast or back pain
• - Painful periods
• - Abdominal pains
• - Nausea or sickness
• - Dizziness
• - Spotting or abnormal vaginal bleeding
• - Headaches
• - Mood changes
• - Tiredness

Read the medication leaflet that comes with ellaOne for detailed side effects, interactions with other medicine and warnings.