Dear JohnJohn,

Good for you for thinking about birth control! Used correctly and consistently, the patch (Ortho Evra) is up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy. However, it offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections — only latex and female condoms reduce the risk of infection. For this reason, many people use female or latex condoms in addition to a hormonal method of birth control (like the patch, ring, pill, or shot). Basically, it's a good idea!

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.