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Birth Control Patch
More than 99% effective when used correctly.
The birth control patch is a hormonal method of birth control like birth control pills, Depo Provera®, or Mirena®. It contains the same forms of progesterone and estrogen found in many birth control pills. A new patch is applied each week and the hormones are absorbed through the skin.
How to use it:
The patch is a clear plastic square. Each patch comes in an individual wrapper. Women using the patch wear a new patch each week for three weeks. On the fourth week no patch is used and the menstrual period will begin. It can be worn on the stomach, buttocks, back or upper arm. Because it contains hormones it should not be stuck to the breast. It is designed to stay in place when the woman showers, exercises or swims. If you are using the patch and it does come unstuck, try to stick it back on the same area of the body. If it is no longer sticky or it has become stuck to itself or something else you can apply a new patch. If the patch is reattached (or a new one is used) within 24 hours you can continue on your cycle and change your patch when you normally would. You don't need to use a backup form of birth control. If the patch is unstuck for more than 24 hours you need to start over with a new patch. Make the day you apply the new patch your new day one and change your patch a week later. You should use a backup method of birth control. Like a condom, to protect yourself from pregnancy.
Side Effects:
- Skin irritation may be a problem for some women due to the adhesive that holds the patch in place
- Similar side effects seen with birth control pills and other hormonal contraceptives, including breast tenderness, headache and nausea (particularly in first months of use)
Advantages:
- Very effective at preventing pregnancy
- Your period is regular and predictable
- You don't have to interrupt sex to use the patch
- Easier to remember than the pill
Disadvantages:
- You are not protected against sexually transmitted infections
- You need a prescription
- It can come unstuck
- It may be less effective for heavier women
- You may have skin irritation or other side effects
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