Contraceptive Patch
The contraceptive patch is a thin, square patch (similar to a quit smoking patch) that can be worn on the buttocks, abdomen, or outer upper arm. You wear the patch for one week at a time for three consecutive weeks. The fourth week is patch-free and this is when you will get your period.
How does the contraceptive patch work?
Like the birth control pill, it prevents pregnancy by:
- Preventing your ovaries from releasing an egg each menstrual cycle (ovulation).
- Changing the texture of your cervical mucous creating a barrier for sperm.
- Thinning the lining of the uterus, making it harder for a fertilized egg to implant and result in a pregnancy.
Advantages:
- You only have to remember to change the patch once a week as opposed to taking a pill every day.
- It may help reduce acne
- It can help regulate your period, making it more predictable.
- You may have less cramping and a lighter blood blow during your periods.
- Highly effective in preventing pregnancy (roughly 99% at perfect use).
Disadvantages:
- Side effects can occur and may include: breast tenderness, headache, nausea, upper respiratory infection, menstrual cramps and abdominal pain.
- The patch does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- You must visit a doctor to get a prescription for the patch.
- Unlike the birth control pill, there is currently only one type of patch and it contains the same amount of hormones in each one. If the dosage of hormones does not work well for you there is no alternative patch with higher or lower doses of hormones in it.
- The patch only comes in one colour and doesn’t match everyone’s skin.
- The patch may be less effective for women with a body mass greater that 190 lbs. (90 Kg)
Updated July 3, 2008