Myths: EC vs. Abortion

Is There Anything Else I Should Know About the Abortion Pill?

In order to use mifepristone, you will need to make three visits to your healthcare provider. All three visits are important for the medicine to work safely and effectively.

 

What About Ulipristal?

Ulipristal (ella^®) is a fairly new emergency contraceptive that differs significantly from the standard emergency contraceptive pills, such as Plan B One-Step™ or Next Choice^®. Although there is a lack of information available about whether ulipristal can cause an abortion, it is at least theoretically possible that it could. Ulipristal acts in a similar manner as mifepristone, and animal studies clearly show that the drug can cause miscarriages.

 

If taken as directed (within five days after unprotected sex and before a woman is pregnant), ulipristal would act like other emergency contraceptives. However, if taken when a woman is already pregnant, it could possibly disrupt an established pregnancy.

 

Final Thoughts

If you are unsure about anything related to emergency contraception or abortion, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she can provide you with more detailed information.

 

In addition, keep in mind that EC must be taken within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. The sooner you take it, the more effective it is. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek additional information or assistance if you have had unprotected sex and are unsure of your options.