Posted: June 13, 2022 Contributor: Maddie Quinn

How to Prevent Pregnancy After Unprotected Sex

If you’re reading this, you may be freaking out about pregnancy. But don’t worry—there are safe and effective ways to prevent an unwanted pregnancy after unprotected sex. In fact, there are several options for emergency contraception (EC), also known as the “morning after pill” or “day after pill.” It’s important to know the difference between them in order to choose the best option for you.

When should I take the morning after pill?

If you missed a pill, experienced a broken condom, made a fertility miscalculation, had unprotected sex, or if you’re just not sure—we recommend taking emergency contraception. EC should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. The effectiveness of the pill decreases the longer you wait to take it.

The most common types of emergency contraceptive pills are levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate. Levonorgestrel (Plan B, EContra) can be taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected intercourse, while ulipristal acetate (Ella) can be taken within 120 hours (5 days) after sex if your regular method failed or was not used properly. 

What’s the difference between Plan B and Ella?

People often ask, “What’s the difference between Plan B and Ella?” Plan B (EContra) and Ella are both forms of emergency contraception, but they work in slightly different ways.

The two types of emergency contraception can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Plan B contains the hormone levonorgestrel and can be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected intercourse. It works by preventing ovulation, which means the release of an egg from the ovary. EContra is another brand name for levonorgestrel emergency contraception. The difference is just in the brand name. You can get EContra through PRJKT RUBY without having to see a doctor.

Ella, on the other hand, is an ulipristal acetate-based medication that can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. It works by delaying ovulation and thickening cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg. Ella is also more effective than Plan B in preventing pregnancy if you weigh more than 165 lbs. You can also get Ella by prescription through PRJKT RUBY, and we offer a free physician consultation. 

We recommend having EContra or Ella on hand as a backup form of birth control. It’s important to note that these pills are not intended for regular use as a form of birth control and should only be used in emergency situations. It’s always better to use regular contraceptive methods, such as condoms and oral contraceptives, to prevent pregnancy. Also, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any of these emergency contraceptive pills as they may not be suitable for everyone and may interact with other medications you may be taking. 

Ella® is available by prescription through PRJKT RUBY

Ella is available by prescription through PRJKT RUBY. It’s more effective than Plan B, but it’s also a little more expensive. You can schedule a same-day appointment through PRJKT RUBY with a healthcare provider, who will ask you a few medical questions in order to determine if you are eligible for the drug.

If you’re taking Ella, remember that it’s not 100% effective at preventing pregnancy and doesn’t protect against STIs (sexually transmitted infections). It’s still important to use condoms when having sex with someone new or if there is a risk of infection from the person with whom you are having sex.

Talk to a doctor about emergency contraception

When it comes to emergency contraception, it’s important to act quickly. The sooner you take the pill, the more effective it will be. However, it is still possible to get pregnant even if you take the drug within the recommended time frame, so it’s important to follow up with a healthcare professional for further information and advice.

It is also important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking emergency contraceptive pills as they may not be suitable for everyone and may interact with other medications you may be taking.

In conclusion, emergency contraception is a safe and effective option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. However, it should not be used as a regular form of birth control and it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any emergency contraceptive pills. Lastly, you should always talk to your doctor about any health concerns and get tested for STIs. If you have any questions about what to do after unprotected sex, don’t hesitate to reach out at service@prjktruby.com or give us a call at (844) 887-7829.