What should you know about upa emergency contraception?

Ulipristal acetate, often called UPA, is a single-dose emergency contraceptive tablet. It works mainly by delaying ovulation; it cannot end an established pregnancy and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Its effect can be affected by some medicines, including certain treatments for epilepsy, tuberculosis, HIV, or herbal products such as St John's wort.

Take the tablet as soon as you can after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, following the product instructions or advice from a pharmacist or clinician. Tell them about regular medicines, breastfeeding, severe asthma treated with oral steroids, and any other emergency contraception already used. If you vomit soon after taking it, contact a pharmacist or clinician because another dose may be needed. Use condoms or avoid sex until reliable ongoing contraception is established; UPA does not cover later sex in the cycle.

Ask urgently for advice if the timing of sex is unclear, you take medicines that may interact, or you have severe abdominal pain, faintness, or unusual bleeding. Take a pregnancy test if your next period is notably late, unusually light, or pregnancy symptoms occur. Seek medical care for a positive test or persistent pain. [Levonorgestrel] is another emergency contraception medicine, but the options have different instructions and should not be switched without advice.

Ask whether UPA is suitable with your medicines, when to restart or begin regular hormonal contraception, how long to use condoms, and when to test for pregnancy. Mention breastfeeding, recent unprotected sex, and any vomiting after the dose.