Dear sami222,

Women who decide to use the patch (Ortho Evra) usually start using it on or before day five of their menstrual cycles. (Day one is the first day of bleeding.) A woman should use a back-up method of birth control — like a condom — for at least seven days after starting the patch. If a clinician recommends a different starting time, be sure to follow advice about how long to use a back-up method.

The patch is placed on the skin of the buttocks, stomach, upper outer arm, or upper torso once a week for three out of four weeks. It releases hormones that protect against pregnancy for one month. Used correctly, the patch is up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy. However, it offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections. Partners can use female or latex condoms to reduce the risk of infection.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.