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, and this one gives us an extra two days. 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 (YET) without a prescription, but you can order it online through www.ella-rx.com where a doctor will go through a "telemedicine encounter" (aka spiffy new online doctor visit) with you and figure out if you can take it safely. Plan B and NextChoice are available over the counter to anyone over 17 (that last part being totally arbitrary!) Either way, saves you a clinic visit!

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:)