Ulipristal: What It Is and How It Works

When you hear Ulipristal, you’re looking at a prescription pill that stops an unplanned pregnancy after sex. It’s a Ulipristal acetate, a selective progesterone receptor modulator used mainly for emergency contraception. Also called Ella, it works by delaying ovulation and, when needed, interfering with the embryo’s ability to implant.

Ulipristal belongs to a larger family called Selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs), drugs that bind to progesterone receptors and either block or activate them depending on the tissue. This class also includes medications for uterine fibroids and certain hormonal therapies. Because SPRMs can control the hormonal signaling that triggers ovulation, Ulipristal can be taken up to five days after intercourse – a longer window than the more familiar levonorgestrel pills.

Why Choose Ulipristal Over Other Options?

One common alternative for post‑coital protection is the copper IUD, a small, hormone‑free device inserted into the uterus that can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. While the copper IUD is the most effective emergency method, it requires a clinician’s visit and insertion. Ulipristal, on the other hand, offers a pill‑based solution that you can get from a pharmacy if you have a valid prescription. The trade‑off is slightly lower effectiveness compared with the IUD, but higher efficacy than levonorgestrel pills, especially after 72 hours.

Another comparison point is regular emergency contraceptive pills that contain levonorgestrel. Those work best within 72 hours and drop in effectiveness after that. Ulipristal maintains a steady efficacy through the full 120‑hour window, making it a go‑to choice for people who miss the early window or who want a single option that covers the entire five‑day period.

Practical considerations matter, too. Ulipristal is taken as a single 30 mg tablet, and you don’t need to repeat the dose. Side effects are generally mild – occasional headaches or nausea – and they resolve quickly. Because it’s prescription‑only, you’ll need a brief consult with a healthcare provider, but many telehealth services now offer fast approvals and direct shipment, cutting down the wait time.

In summary, Ulipristal sits at the intersection of hormonal control (via its SPRM nature) and convenient, pill‑based emergency contraception. It fills the gap between over‑the‑counter options and long‑term methods like the copper IUD. Below you’ll find articles that dive deeper into buying Ulipristal safely, comparing it with other emergency contraceptives, and understanding the science behind how it blocks pregnancy. Explore the collection to get actionable tips, price guides, and safety info you can use right away.