The birth control patch is a transdermal method of birth control. It is a hormonal patch comprised of estrogen and progestin. These hormones prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and altering the lining of the cervix and uterus. Women should discuss this method of birth control with their physician. Women over the age of 35 who smoke and those with a medical history of stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and migraine headaches may not be able to use the contraceptive skin patch. For those who can use it, there are some advantages to choosing the contraceptive skin patch for birth control.
Effective
The contraceptive skin patch is an effective method of birth control. According to Planned Parenthood, fewer than 1 out of 100 women will get pregnant each year if they always use Ortho Evra as directed. The key to maintaining the effectiveness of this method is to always use it as prescribed by a physician. It is important to know that this method may not be as effective in women over 198 lbs., or those who take certain medications. Patients should always tell their physician that they are using the contraceptive skin patch, so that they do not prescribe medications that alter its effectiveness.
Easy to Use
This method may be a good choice for women who have difficulty remembering to take a birth control pill every day. According to the manufacturer, in a clincial study, women who used the patch were more likely to use it correctly and consistently than women who took birth control pills. Women can place the contraceptive patch on the skin of their buttocks, stomach, upper outer arm, or upper torso for a period of three weeks. No patch has to be applied on the fourth week. Women can exercise, shower, and swim with the contraceptive patch effectively in place. Some women consider this method easier to use than barrier methods of birth control such as condoms or a diaphragm, which may limit spontaneity.
Additional Benefits
Women may experience additional benefits besides birth control while using the contraceptive skin patch. According to Planned Parenthood, the patch may offer additional protection against acne, heavy menstrual periods, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian and endometrial cancer, anemia, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, and premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. It is important for women to understand that the contraceptive skin patch will not protect them from sexually transmitted infections or the human immunodeficiency virus. Women may want to use a barrier method, such as a condom to protect them from disease.
