Emergency Contraception Pill (Ulipristal)
What is the Ulipristal pill?
It is an emergency morning after pill (tablet) used to lower the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex, including:
- If you had sex without a condom
- If the condom ripped, slipped, or came off
- If you missed some of your usual birth control pills.
It is best to take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex, up to a maximum of 5 days (120 hours). The regular dose is one tablet, taken orally. It can be taken at any time in your menstrual cycle.
The pill will not work if you are already pregnant. It should only be used sometimes, and any more sex after taking it should be protected with a condom.
What should I tell a doctor or nurse?
Before taking it, you need to tell a doctor or nurse:
- About any allergies or medications you are taking. The pill contains lactose.
- If you have severe asthma or severe liver disease.
- If your period is late or if you have symptoms of pregnancy, such as morning sickness or tender breasts.
What are the side effects?
- Nausea, stomach pain or discomfort
- Vomiting, headache or feeling dizzy
- Painful period, pelvic pain, tender breasts
- Feeling tired, mood swings, muscle pain, back pain