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Other Options for Emergency Contraception: ella and the Copper IUD

A discussion of reasons why emergency contraception may be needed, and additional options such as ella and the Copper IUD.

Video transcript

Hello and welcome to “VideoScript”, presented by Drugs.com.

Today in the final of three presentations, we continue reviewing options that are available for emergency contraception.

We will discuss the emergency contraceptive pill ella and the copper IUD and discuss situations in which emergency contraception may be used.

For complete information, please review all 3 videos.

There are many valid reasons why emergency contraception may be needed. Some of these reasons include:
• If a contraceptive method was desired but not used
• If there is a contraceptive failure, for example, condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap breakage or slippage
• If birth control pills, patches, rings or injections are started late or dislodged
• If there is a failed withdrawal method
• If there is expulsion of an IUD or implant
• And In Sexual assault

In addition to the emergency contraceptive pills known as Plan B One Step, Next Choice One Dose and Next Choice, there is another type of emergency contraceptive pill called ella that can also be used up to five days after unprotected sex.

ella contains 30 mg of ulipristal, and it works by blocking the natural hormone progesterone from occupying its receptor site in the body. It blocks the body’s own progesterone.

ella requires a prescription from your doctor at any age. You cannot get it at the pharmacy without having a prescription first.

Ella can be used up to 5 days after unprotected sex or a contraceptive failure and should be taken as soon as possible.

Another option for emergency contraception is the insertion of the copper intrauterine device, or copper IUD, up to 5 days after unprotected sex or a contraceptive failure.

The copper IUD is known by the brand name Paragard.

The copper IUD is a T-shaped, hormone-free device that is inserted by a healthcare provider into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

This form of emergency contraception may be a good choice for women who would like to leave the IUD in place as long-term birth control. Women should discuss this option with their physician, as the IUD may not be right for everyone.

The IUD is expensive up front but if continued as birth control, it can be very cost-effective and convenient, as there is no need to remember to take a pill each day. The copper IUD can usually be left in place for up to ten years. Some insurance plans may pay for the IUD, as well, so women may want to check their plan.

Thank you for joining us at Drugs.com for a brief review of emergency contraception. Please refer to our patient and professional information, drug interaction checker, and additional tools on Drugs.com.

Patients with a concern about the use of emergency contraceptives should consult with their health care provider.

Visit Drugs.com/ella for more information

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