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Picking the Patch
by Susan Yudt, 12.13.05
Revised by Jennifer Johnsen, 03.20.07
The patch is up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy when it's used correctly. |
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Supermodel Naomi Campbell wore it. So did players on Norway's Olympic beach volleyball team. Millions of women buy it every year. But this hot item isn't a bit of bling or a cute bikini. It's the birth control patch — a highly effective way to reduce the risk of pregnancy.
Here are the answers to some common questions about the patch.
How does it work?
The patch contains the same hormones that are in the combined-hormone birth control pill — estrogen and progestin. These hormones work to prevent a woman's ovaries from releasing an egg each month — called ovulation. They also thicken the mucus of the cervix, which prevents sperm from joining with an egg. In theory, they could also thin the lining of the uterus and prevent a fertilized egg from implanting. But there is no scientific evidence that fertilization occurs among women using this method.
How do I use it?
Once a week, for three weeks in a row, a woman places a patch on the skin of her buttocks, stomach, upper outer arm, or upper torso. This protects against pregnancy for one month.
If you apply your first patch within five days after the start of your period, you are protected immediately. If you apply your first patch more than five days after the start of your period, use a backup method of birth control — like a latex or female condom — if you have vaginal intercourse during the first week. Patch protection will begin after seven days.
How effective is it?
The patch is up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy when it's used correctly. Pregnancy can happen if the patch becomes loose or falls off for more than 24 hours, or if the same patch is left on the skin for more than a week. Also, keep in mind that the patch offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections — only latex and female condoms do.
Is the patch safe?
Yes. Despite alarming stories from some news outlets, the patch has been shown to be very safe. All combined-hormone users have a slightly greater risk of developing certain serious problems. They include blood clots in the legs that can travel to the lungs, heart attack, stroke, and liver tumors. More estrogen is absorbed from the patch than from other hormonal methods. The risks of heart attack, stroke, or blood clots in the lungs are rare for the patch, the pill, and the ring. It's uncertain whether patch users have an increased risk of blood clots in the legs.
How can I get the patch?
Although in some states it is possible to get a prescription online, women usually have to visit a health care provider in order to get a prescription for the patch and other forms of hormonal birth control. You can schedule an appointment to get the patch at your local Planned Parenthood health center by calling 1-800-230-PLAN.
Do I need to have a pelvic exam to get the patch?
Not necessarily. Many clinicians will allow you to postpone having a pelvic exam. This varies by provider, so you will need to ask about this option. If you are allowed to postpone it, ask how long you can do that. You will need to talk with your clinician about your medical history to be sure the patch is right for you.
Do I need my parents' permission to get on the patch?
In general, minors do not need parental consent for prescription birth control. However, there may be certain locations where, for one reason or another, the provider will require parental permission. Check with your provider about her or his policy about parental permission and confidentiality.
How much does the patch cost?
The patch usually costs about $30-$40 per month. If needed, a physical exam usually costs about $35-$175.
Many Planned Parenthood health centers offer reduced-fee services to teens with little or no income.
Does the patch have any side effects?
Some women may experience side effects while on the patch. Side effects that usually clear up after two or three months of use include- bleeding between periods
- breast tenderness
- changes in mood
- headache
- nausea — rarely, vomiting
Other possible side effects may include change in sexual desire, depression, and a skin reaction at the site of application.
What are the advantages of the patch?
Many women find the patch more convenient than the pill because they don't have to remember to take a pill every day — the patch only needs to be applied once a week.
There are also many non-contraceptive benefits that come with using the patch, including relief from PMS and irregular menstrual cycles; a reduction in acne and excess body hair; and protection against iron deficiency anemia, ovarian and endometrial cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, osteoporosis, and ovarian cysts.
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For complete information on the patch, including information on who can use the patch and what to do if you forget to apply a patch, check out The Patch. |
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