Birth Control Options: The Patch (Ortho Evra Patch)

WHAT IS THE PATCH?

The patch is 4.5 cm square, combined estrogen and progestin adhesive devise, similar to a large band aid. One patch is worn for one week for each of 3 consecutive weeks. The fourth week is patch free to allow for withdrawal bleeding (a period). The patch can be applied to the lower abdomen, buttocks, or the upper outer arm or upper torso (except on the breasts). The patch prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, similar to birth control pills. The patch’s effectiveness is equivalent to the pill. A cycle of weekly patches (3) costs approximately the same as a cycle of pills. It is recommended that the first patch be placed on the first day of a menstrual period. If started any other day, a back up method should be used for the first 7 days. More complete information about this contraceptive can be obtained from your health care provider, pharmacist or the package insert accompanying the patch.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES?

• This method of contraception is useful for women who want to avoid having to do something on a daily basis or at the time of intercourse.
• Decreased fear of pregnancy may allow more enjoyment of sexual activity.
• This is a good option for women wanting to have monthly/regular periods.
• Single replacement patches are available from a pharmacist.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES?

• Women must remember to remove and replace the patch weekly.
• During the first cycle of patch use, about 20% of women experience breakthrough bleeding (spotting).
• The most common side effects were headaches (22%), nausea (20%), breast tenderness (15% during first patch cycle – this decreased to about 2% in subsequent cycles), and skin irritation at site of application (1%).
• Women weighing more than 198 lbs. should be aware that the patch may be slightly less effective and they should use a back-up method of contraception.
• Women do need to take some care with and observe patch placement (i.e. not over tattoos, need to rotate sites, need to check each day to be sure patch edges are secure, that patch has not has not fallen off, must not move patch mid-week, etc.).
• This method offers no protection against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections/diseases (STIs, STDs). Use a condom if you are at risk.
• Requires a prescription - can not be obtained over the counter.

WHERE CAN I GET THE PATCH?

The patch or a prescription for the patch may be obtained from your doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, local health department or family planning clinic.

WHAT IF I HAVE SEX AND DON’T USE BIRTH CONTROL?

Did you know that for 72 hours after sex, you can take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid becoming pregnant? AND for 5 to 7 days after sex, you can have an IUD put in, so you won’t become pregnant? Not all clinicians know about this. If you want more information or would like the phone numbers of clinicians near you that prescribe emergency birth control, call the toll-free number: (1-888) NOT-2-LATE or (1-800) 584-9911. Some of these sources of help are free. PLAN B is the emergency contraceptive pill that causes the least nausea, the least vomiting, and has the lowest failure rate.

The Pill | The Mini-Pill | Birth Control Shot | Abstinence  | Cervical Cap

Breastfeeding | Vasectomy | Female/Male Condom Choices

Contraceptive Film (VCF) | Natural Family Planning  |  IUD's

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECP) | Vaginal Spermicides

Tubal Sterilization | The Ring | The Patch

Wyoming Health Council

Copyright ©2004 Wyoming Health Council. All rights reserved.