Plan B vs. ella vs. Copper IUD: Emergency Contraception Compared
A clinical comparison of levonorgestrel, ulipristal acetate, and IUD insertion timelines, weight limits, and availability.
Clinical Review Standard
Reviewed by Dr. Maya Patel, MD, Reproductive Endocrinologist. Grounded in consensus guidelines from CDC, WHO, NHS, and ACOG.
Plan B is licensed for use up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex. However, other emergency contraceptives like prescription ella (Ulipristal) and copper/hormonal IUDs can be used up to 120 hours (5 days) with superior efficacy.
- Plan B (Levonorgestrel) is available over-the-counter without age restrictions or ID; effective up to 72 hours (3 days).
- ella (Ulipristal acetate) requires a prescription; it maintains high effectiveness across 120 hours (5 days) and works closer to ovulation than Plan B.
- The Copper IUD or 52mg Levonorgestrel IUD inserted within 5 days is >99.9% effective and serves as long-term birth control for up to 10–12 years.
- Body weight matters: Plan B has reduced efficacy over 165 lbs; ella works up to 195 lbs; IUDs have zero weight limitations.
| Clinical Topic | Plan B vs. ella vs. Copper IUD: Emergency Contraception Compared |
|---|---|
| Health Domain | Emergency Contraception |
| Primary Guideline Basis | ACOG — Practice Bulletin No. 152: Emergency Contraception, CDC — Emergency Contraception Guidance, Planned Parenthood — Which Emergency Contraception Is Best for You? |
| Medical Reviewer | Dr. Maya Patel, MD, Reproductive Endocrinologist |
Biological Foundation
Hormonal signaling, tissue pathways, and cellular activity initiate.
Active Intervention
Barrier protection, hormonal regulation, or clinical therapy operates.
Clinical Result & Safety
Symptom relief, infection prevention, and verifiable peace of mind.
Clinical visual model based on consensus guidelines from ACOG — Practice Bulletin No. 152: Emergency Contraception.
1. The Three Primary Methods Compared
When unprotected intercourse occurs, choosing the optimal method depends on hours elapsed, body weight, and accessibility.
Myths vs. Clinical Facts
Evidence: ACOG recommends ella or an IUD for individuals weighing over 165 lbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get ella without going to a doctor's office in person?
Yes. Many telehealth services (Wisp, Nurx, Planned Parenthood Direct) offer same-day digital prescriptions sent directly to your local pharmacy.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
- ΓÇó More than 72 hours have elapsed since unprotected sex — ask a clinician for ella or an emergency IUD insertion.
- ΓÇó Unexplained pelvic pain 3–4 weeks later.
- ACOG — Practice Bulletin No. 152: Emergency Contraception
- CDC — Emergency Contraception Guidance
- Planned Parenthood — Which Emergency Contraception Is Best for You?
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) — Ulipristal Acetate Assessment
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