A 28-year-old woman presents requesting emergency contraception. She had unprotected intercourse 60 hours ago. She is not currently taking any regular contraception. The MOST effective pharmacological option available to her at this time point is:

• A Ulipristal acetate 30 mg (EllaOne) ✓
• B Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg (Plan B) taken immediately
• C Combined oestrogen-progestogen Yuzpe regimen
• D Mifepristone 10 mg

Explanation

Ulipristal acetate (UPA, EllaOne) is a selective progesterone receptor modulator effective as emergency contraception up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected intercourse. Studies show UPA is superior to levonorgestrel in efficacy, particularly between 72–120 hours. Levonorgestrel EC is approved for up to 72 hours and loses significant efficacy beyond 72 hours. At 60 hours, UPA is more effective than levonorgestrel. The Yuzpe regimen is less effective than either dedicated EC method.

Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.