Oh happy day! Sometimes it seems that reproductive health research and tech moves slower than LA traffic (how long have tampons been around and WHY haven't they come up with a better option yet?) but some brilliant researchers somewhere have finally put a lil' brain power to the test and come up with a brand new, ultra shiny, super exciting PILL!
No, it isn't another birth control pill to add to the 200 or so that already exist - its called ella, and it can be taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy! Woohoo!
You might say, "oh! I've already heard of that - its called Plan B" but nope - this is slightly different; Plan B and NextChoice are effective when taken up to 3 days after, but ella is effective for up to 5 days after unprotected sex. Ella is also more effective than other emergency contraceptive pills for people who weigh more than 155 pounds. Some things are still the same - its more effective the earlier you take it, and its STILL not an abortion pill (the RU486 medication abortion) but the overall idea is the same... condoms can break, rings can be forgotten, and sometimes you just get carried away in the heat of the moment!
Unfortunately, it isn't available without a prescription, but you can get it by talking to your doctor or your local Planned Parenthood or other family planning clinic. Ella is also available online from providers like Nurx or PRJKT RUBY. Plan B and NextChoice are available over the counter to anyone over 17 (that last part being totally arbitrary!).
So I'm giving three cheers for more choice in preventing unplanned pregnancy - wanna join me? It's ok, just let out three little yells under your breath:)