Birth Control Patch
The birth control patch is discussed belowWhat are Birth Control Patches?
Danger signs associated with the birth control pill
What are Birth Control Pills?
The birth control patch is a 1 3/4-inch square, thin, beige-colored patch that you apply directly to the skin of your buttocks, abdomen, upper torso or upper outer arm. The patch continuously delivers two synthetic hormones, progestin (norelgestromin) and estrogen (ethinyl estradiol), which are similar to hormones your body produces on its own. The synthetic hormones impede pregnancy by preventing your ovaries from releasing eggs (ovulation). If eggs aren't released, sperm can't fertilize them and pregnancy can't occur. The patch also thickens your cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus and reach any eggs that may be released. It does not protect against reproductive tract infections, including HIV/AIDS. .How to use them
Use of the birth control patch is timed to coincide with your menstrual cycle. On the first day of your period or the first Sunday after your period begins, you apply the patch to your skin and keep it there for one week. On the same day each week for three weeks, you replace the old patch with a new one. The new patch can be placed on a different part of your body. During the fourth week, you don't apply the patch, and your menstrual period occurs. The following week you repeat the sequence.If you don't start the first patch during the first 24-hours of your period, you must use an additional form of birth control for seven days to prevent pregnancy. If subsequent patches are applied and removed at proper times, additional birth control methods aren't necessary.
You can shower, bathe, exercise and swim while wearing the patch. Don't remove or change the location of the patch once you've applied it to your skin, as doing so may cause the patch to loosen.
In rare instances the birth control patch may loosen or fall off for other reasons. This usually occurs because the patch was applied incorrectly. To reapply a patch, press down firmly on the patch with the palm of your hand for 10 seconds, then run your fingers around the edge of the patch.
Don't reapply the patch if it's no longer sticky, if it has become stuck to itself or another surface, or if it has become loose or fallen off before. Don't use tape to keep the patch in place, and don't trim or alter the patch in any way. Doing so may alter the amount of hormones it delivers.
If you reapply the patch within 24 hours, its contraceptive effects remain intact. However, if more than 24 hours elapse, use an additional form of birth control until a new patch has been in place for seven days.
Side Effects
Side effects associated with the patch are relatively minor and may include:- Minor skin irritation at the application site
- Breast tenderness
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses.
- Headache
- Upper respiratory infection
- Menstrual cramps
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Nausea.
Advantages
- Periods may be lighter or more regular.
- Ease of use.
- No harm to future fertility.
- Does not affect sex play.
- May protect against uterine and ovarian cancers.
- May reduce acne.
Disadvantages
- Does not protect against STD, including HIV/AIDS.
- Requires a prescription.
- Raised risk of heart attack and stroke.
Links
- Safe Sex info.
- Information about using birth control bills.
- Morning after and abortion pills
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