Viagra’s success in helping men with erectile dysfunction has made it a household name. Now, a similar product may be able to help women avoid pregnancy – or at least help them get pregnant sooner than they’d like.
Known as Plan B, EllaSAFE (stands for Egg Lays Anti-Fertility Agent) is a prescription medication that reduces sperm production and can cause a temporary reduction in a woman’s ability to get pregnant. The FDA approved EllaSAFE for sale in the United States in January 2018 and it’s available in a few select drug stores and online retailers across the nation. As a woman looking to avoid pregnancy or get pregnant as soon as possible, it’s important to understand how EllaSAFE works and whether it’s right for you.
How Does It Work?
Just as with Viagra, EllaSAFE helps to increase blood flow to the sexual organs which in turn helps to improve the erectile dysfunction or low sperm count in males. By increasing blood flow to the genital area, more oxygen gets delivered to the cells which in turn promotes healthier and stronger sperm. So, in a nut shell, taking EllaSAFE may boost your sperm count and help you get pregnant or avoid pregnancy more easily.
Is It the Right Choice For Me?
EllaSAFE’s effectiveness at reducing sperm production depends on how much estrogen your body produces. Your body naturally makes more estrogen as you get older, so if you’re already past the age of fertility or are just entering it, EllaSAFE may not be the right choice for you. There is also the matter of cost. While Plan B is generally considered to be a cheaper option compared to other forms of contraception, the cost of this medication can still be high. If you’re on Medicaid or have Medicare coverage, you may be able to get a prescription for EllaSAFE filled at a lower cost. Some insurance companies cover the cost of infertility treatment, so make sure to check with your provider before you purchase any drugstores that carry EllaSAFE.
How Long Does It Last?
As with any other medication, side effects may occur after you’ve been using EllaSAFE for a while. These side effects may range from mild to severe and include nausea, headaches, abdominal pain, and more. While these side effects are generally not considered dangerous, they may mean that you’re not prepared to go on an extended vacation just yet. In some cases, patients have experienced severe headaches and even vomiting as a result of taking EllaSAFE. Your physician may be able to prescribe you a different dosage or a different medication if you experience these side effects. Sometimes, they may suggest that you try a different drug or combination of drugs to get the results you’re looking for. It’s also important to note that while most people experience the benefits of EllaSAFE within two to three months of usage, it may take up to six months for some individuals to notice a significant difference.
Is There Any Risk of Addiction?
Just as with Viagra, there’s always the possibility of addiction with any medication. If you or someone you know is suffering from an opioid addiction, they may experience adverse effects when taking any medication. In those cases, it may be best to try and wean them off of the drug before starting them on any kind of medication for infertility. Your physician may be able to suggest a safer alternative for you or your loved one. It is also important to note that while most people experience the benefits of EllaSAFE within two to three months of usage, it may take up to six months for some individuals to notice a significant difference.
Should You Try It If You’re On The Fertility Clock?
If you’re already past the age of fertility or are just entering it, EllaSAFE may not be the right choice for you. Your physician will be able to tell you more about what drugs will be effective in preventing pregnancy and how long they will continue to work. For some women, it may be best to avoid drugs and artificial contraception due to possible side effects. In those cases, the safest and most effective method of birth control may be something as simple as an IUD or an implant. In some cases, patients have had success using herbs and vitamins to boost their bodies’ natural defenses and prevent pregnancy. Some patients also benefit from acupuncture or chiropractic treatment which helps to relax tight muscles near the surface of the skin and also promotes better blood circulation and oxygenation in the body. Taking time off work may also be necessary due to the side effects of EllaSAFE. In some cases, patients have experienced severe headaches and even vomiting as a result of taking EllaSAFE. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to try Plan B, take into consideration all the pros and the cons and what is best for you. Your physician is bound to have more information on the subject, so be sure to consult with them about what to try next and whether or not EllaSAFE is the right choice for you.