All About Birth Control Patch Use and its Side Effects

A birth control or contraceptive patch is a thin square patch that adheres to the skin. It works by releasing hormones through the skin and into the bloodstream. The patch has a combination of two hormones, estrogen and progesterone. These hormones prevent the release of the egg from the ovaries every month.

Aside from preventing ovulation, the hormones in the patch thicken the cervical mucus making it hard for the sperm to reach the egg. In case of fertilization, the patch goes into action by affecting the lining of the uterus making it difficult for the fertilized egg to attach itself to the wall of the uterus.

Like the birth control pill, a patch is used based on a woman’s menstrual cycle. She puts on the patch on the first day of her menstrual cycle or the first Sunday after her cycle begins whichever she prefers. The patch is changed on the same day every week for 3 consecutive weeks. The patch is removed and will not be replaced on the fourth week. This is when a woman’s period should start.

The patch can be worn and applied on the upper outer arm, upper torso or thighs, buttocks or on the abdomen except on the breasts. During the first 7 days on the patch, it is advisable to have an additional form of contraception. Also if the patch gets loose or falls off, it is important to consult your health care provider and have a back up birth control method or abstain from sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy.

The most common contraceptive patches available in the market are Ortho Evra and Evra. Possible side effects include irregular period, nausea and dizziness, breast pain and engorgement, application site reaction and blood clots.

Birth control patches do not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases. A different form of contraception such as condoms should be used to prevent STDs. Abstinence, however is your best protection.