About Ortho Evra Patch Side Effects

Overview

According to the Mayo Clinic, the Ortho Evra birth control patch is about 98 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. Ortho Evra is more convenient than most other forms of birth control because it comes in the form of a patch that is adhered to the body. Like oral contraceptives, the Ortho Evra patch relies on hormones to prevent pregnancy. When selecting a method of birth control it may be determined that Ortho Evra is a great fit for you. Consult with your doctor to determine the risks associated with this method and whether Ortho Evra is recommended. Some individuals should avoid Ortho Evra due to side effects and serious risks associated with the hormones in the patch as well as the impact they can have on other health conditions.

Significance

Ortho Evra is a unique form of birth control because of the method of application. A patch is applied to the body once per week in one of four locations, one being the back of the shoulder. During the menstruation week, no patch is worn. Once Ortho Evra is in place, it slowly begins transmitting estrogen and progestin through the skin. According to Mayo Clinic, the patch allows more estrogen to enter the body than other forms of hormonal contraceptive. Estrogen already has the potential for side effects, but increasing the amount that is in the body can increase the risk for side effects.

Common Side Effects

As with any form of hormone-based birth control, there can be several side effects from Ortho Evra. These common side effects are not a cause for concern unless they are severe or cause intolerable discomfort. According to Drugs.com, common side effects include breast tenderness, breast enlargement, increase in painful menstrual cramps, nausea, stomach cramping, bloating, vaginal spotting and vomiting. Some users may experience mild skin irritation at the site of the patch. If this becomes more than itchy and red, contact your doctor.

Allergic Reactions

Some users may experience an allergic reaction. According to Drugs.com, it is important to seek medical attention and discontinue using the patch if you develop a rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, swelling in the mouth, facial swelling, lip and tongue swelling, or tightness in the chest.

Severe Side Effects

Severe reactions to Ortho Evra are not common. Ortho Evra advises to seek medical attention immediately if any of the following symptoms occur: breast lumps, pain in the breast, pain in the calf, swelling or tenderness, changes in vision or speech, chest pain, coughing up blood, fainting, mental/mood changes (depression or memory loss), pain, swelling or tenderness in the stomach, severe headache or vomiting, severe or persistent vaginal bleeding, sudden shortness of breath, swelling of hands or feet, unusual vaginal discharge, itching or odor, weakness or numbness of the arms or legs, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. Ortho Evra points out that oral contraceptives increase the risk of blood clots, and this is also true for the birth control patch. Severe skin blistering or skin changes at the site of the patch should be treated immediately. All of these concerns may be an indication of a more serious issue and need medical attention.

Cold-Like Symptoms

According to the Mayo Clinic, several common cold symptoms may occur when taking Ortho Evra. These symptoms require medical attention as they are not acceptable responses to the birth control patch. Look for unusual fatigue, sore throat, nasal dripping or congestion, fever, congestion in the ears, cough, chills, body aches and pains, and loss of voice. It may be coincidental that you are struck with a cold or the flu when starting out with Ortho Evra, but it is best to consult your health care provider just to be sure the patch is not the cause.