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ellaOne
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ellaOne is a contraceptive intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your contraceptive method has failed. This includes unprotected sex, if a condom tore or if you did not take your contraceptive pill as directed.
- Can be used up to 120 hours (or 5 days) after unprotected sex
- Proven to be 2.5 times more effective than levonorgestrel when taken within 24 hours
- Utilises 30mg of ulipristal acetate to delay ovulation
- Suitable for use at any point during your menstrual cycle
More information
"ellaOne is the most effective morning after pill available for women in the UK, typically prescribed to prevent unplanned pregnancy after contraceptive failure or unprotected intercourse. It works primarily by delaying the release of an egg, and because it remains effective for up to five days, it offers a wider window of protection than traditional emergency options." - Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)
You can buy ellaOne through Mail My Meds by completing a confidential online consultation which is then reviewed by a registered prescriber to ensure the treatment is suitable for you. Once your consultation is approved, your medication is shipped discreetly from our registered pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) directly to your chosen address.
The price of ellaOne includes the cost of the medication, the clinical review by our healthcare team, and the pharmacy dispensing fees. At Mail My Meds, we aim to provide competitive pricing for emergency contraception to ensure it remains an accessible option for those who need it urgently.
We offer various delivery methods to suit your needs, including tracked and expedited services to ensure your treatment arrives as quickly as possible. All packaging is plain and discreet, with no mention of the contents or the pharmacy name on the outside to protect your privacy.
ellaOne is an emergency hormonal contraceptive, often referred to as the "morning after pill," used to reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. It is not a regular form of birth control and is intended for occasional use when other methods fail, such as a condom breaking or missing a daily contraceptive pill.
The active substance in each tablet is 30mg of ulipristal acetate. This compound is a selective progesterone receptor modulator that interacts with the body's natural hormones to postpone the ovulation process.
Many users report that ellaOne is easy to take as a single oral dose and provides peace of mind due to its high efficacy rate. While some individuals experience mild, temporary side effects, the majority of women find the treatment well-tolerated and appreciate the convenience of being able to order it through an online pharmacy service.
The Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provides comprehensive details on how to take the medication, potential interactions, and a full list of ingredients. You should read the PIL carefully before taking your tablet to ensure you understand the correct usage and any specific warnings related to your health history.
ellaOne works by delaying the release of an egg from the ovary, meaning that any sperm present in the reproductive tract cannot fertilise an egg. Because sperm can survive inside the body for up to five days, the active ingredient prevents ovulation until those sperm are no longer viable.
You should take the single tablet as soon as possible after unprotected sex, as the effectiveness is highest when taken early. The tablet can be swallowed with water and taken at any time of the day, either with food or on an empty stomach.
The standard dosage is one 30mg tablet taken as a single dose. If you vomit within three hours of taking the tablet, you must contact a healthcare professional or our pharmacy team immediately, as you may need to take a second dose to ensure the treatment remains effective.
Like all medicines, this treatment can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most are mild and will resolve on their own within a day or two.
- Nausea or feeling sick
- Headaches or dizziness
- Abdominal pain or pelvic discomfort
- Breast tenderness
- Muscle or back pain
- Tiredness or fatigue
ellaOne may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with severe asthma or certain liver conditions. It cannot terminate an existing pregnancy, and you should not take it if you suspect you are already pregnant. Additionally, certain medications, such as those for epilepsy or St John's Wort, can reduce its effectiveness.
The main alternative in the UK is Levonelle (levonorgestrel), which must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. The table below highlights the key differences:
| Feature | ellaOne | Levonelle |
|---|---|---|
| Time Limit | Up to 120 hours (5 days) | Up to 72 hours (3 days) |
| Active Ingredient | Ulipristal acetate | Levonorgestrel |
| Efficacy | Highest throughout 5 days | Decreases over time |
| Breastfeeding | Avoid for 1 week after | Safe to continue |
Can I take ellaOne more than once in a cycle?
Yes, you can take ellaOne more than once in the same menstrual cycle if required, though it should not be used as a replacement for regular, long-term contraception.
Will it affect my future fertility?
No, there is no evidence that taking the morning after pill has any long-term impact on your ability to get pregnant in the future.
How do I know if the treatment has worked?
The only way to know for sure is when your next period arrives. If your period is more than seven days late, you should take a pregnancy test.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking advice from a medical professional for personalised care. Always consult with a doctor or pharmacist if you have specific concerns about your health or medications.
Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts to ensure it is up to date and accurate. We strive to provide the latest clinical guidance to help you make informed decisions about your sexual health.
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