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Ella vs. Plan B One-Step

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Ella

(ulipristal)

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Levonorgestrel

(Plan B One-Step)

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Summary for Ella

Prescription only

Ella (ulipristal) is a prescription emergency contraceptive medication, sometimes called the "morning after pill." It's used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your birth control fails, like a missed pill or broken condom. Ella (ulipristal) works best when you take the tablet as soon as possible, within 5 days after unprotected sex. It isn't regular birth control and won't stop a pregnancy that's already started. Common side effects include headache, nausea, and stomach pain.

Indications for Ella

Pros and Cons for Ella

Pros

  • Single pill that's taken as a one-time dose
  • Works up to 5 days after unprotected sex
  • Most effective emergency contraception pill available
  • Most side effects are mild

Cons

  • Requires a prescription
  • Won't end a pregnancy that's already started
  • Can interact with some hormonal birth control pills
  • Might not work as well for those with a larger body size

Common Side Effects for Ella

  • Headache (18%)
  • Nausea (12%)
  • Stomach pain (12%)

Warnings for Ella

  • Don't take if already pregnant
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Not for use regularly
  • Interactions with other medications
  • Fertility after use
  • Irregular period
  • Sexually transmitted infections

Summary for Plan B One-Step

Over-the-counter

Levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step) works well to prevent pregnancy up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, but it won't stop a pregnancy that has already started and won't protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Indications for Plan B One-Step

  • Emergency contraception

Pros and Cons for Plan B One-Step

Pros

  • Works with a single pill
  • Anyone of any age can buy it
  • Has mild and quick-passing side effects for most people
  • Available over-the-counter with affordable generics available

Cons

  • Can cause breakthrough bleeding or a late period
  • Must be taken within 3 days of unprotected sex to work
  • Won't stop an unwanted pregnancy that's already started
  • Doesn't protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Common Side Effects for Plan B One-Step

  • Next period is heavier than usual (31%)
  • Nausea (14%)
  • Lower stomach pain (13%)
  • Tiredness (13%)
  • Headache (10%)

Warnings for Plan B One-Step

  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Don't take if already pregnant
  • Sexually transmitted infections

Prices with our coupons for Ella vs. Plan B One-Step

Price Card Drug Icon
Ella1 tablet / 30mg
$44.23$49.14
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Price Card Drug Icon
Levonorgestrel1 tablet / 1.5mg
$15.22$28.99
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