EFN

A new type of emergency contraception pill has reportedly been proven to protect women from pregnancy even when it’s taken five days after.

A recent study by Scottish researchers discovered that the pull ulipristal acetate could work well past the recommended three day limit of commonly used levonorgestrel.

Though the latter drug is available over the counter, ulipristal is only available by prescription. To invest in levonorgestrel, a person needs to be over the age of 16.

Many emergency contraceptive options use hormones to stop the release of an ovary’s egg or to stop the egg from implanting itself into the person’s womb.

Emergency contraception involves the use of hormones. Such items will stop an egg from being released or will keep the egg from being implanted in the person’s womb.

Ulipristal is not currently sold over the counter because it hasn’t met the safety guidelines that levonorgestrel has met. Further tests will be needed for it to reach such a status.

Still, the chief executive of British Pregnancy Advisory Service, Ann Furedi, reportedly called the study “exciting news” and has said that the drug is important because it gives people a “longer time window” than other types of emergency sex pills.