Ortho Evra is a weekly birth control patch manufactured by Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals. The patch carries risks as high, or higher than, other forms of birth control that rely on estrogen to block the fertilization of eggs. Blood clots are one of the most common side effects that women taking birth control like Ortho Evra must watch out for. Life-threatening risks such as stroke and heart attacks also are increased with the added estrogen delivered by Ortho Evra. Women also should pay attention to the actual site of the patch for additional side effects.
Vaginal Infections
Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that women taking Ortho Evra are at a higher risk of developing vaginal infections. Bacterial vaginosis is caused by a buildup of organisms naturally found in the vagina that become unbalanced because of the excess estrogen being pumped into the system from the patch. Yeast infections also can occur more often when using Ortho Evra. Yeast infections are caused by an imbalance in the Candida fungus that also appears naturally in the body. Itching, pain and discharge mark the signs of a vaginal infection.
Skin
Infections on the skin are rare if women place the patch in a different area each week. While the patch may cause light skin irritation, cleaning the area after 1 week with patch on should clear up any bacterial fungus that may have gathered. Otho Evra can cause infections if the patch is placed over any open wounds or skin that's red and already irritated.
Liver
The liver can become infected after using Ortho Evra, report Mayo Clinic doctors. Signs of liver damage include jaundice accompanied by a fever. Jaundice will show up as a yellowing tint to the skin and whites of the eyes. Dark urine and white stools also are signs of jaundice and liver or kidney damage. Loss of appetite, weight loss and fatigue also can be signs of liver damage.
Blood Clots
As with many estrogen-based birth control delivery systems, Ortho Evra brings increased risks of blood clots that can cause serious infections and death. Blood clots in the lungs create shortness of breath or a sharp pain in the chest. Persistent pain or throbbing in the leg can be a sign of a blood clot. Headaches or loss of vision can be caused by a blood clot in the eyes or brain.
STDs
Ortho Evra does not protect women against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases and infections. A latex condom still is required to prevent the spread of STDs.
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