Birth control patches are used to prevent pregnancy by releasing synthetic hormones into the blood stream through a transdermal patch applied to the skin. Studies have demonstrated that the effectiveness of birth control patches in preventing pregnancy is similar to that of birth control pills.
Types
Currently, there is only one brand of birth control path in America, namely Ortho Evra, which is marketed by Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc.
Function
Birth control patch releases two hormones, progesterone and estrogen, through the skin into the blood circulation. These hormones prevent releasing of an egg to the ovaries, consequently sperm will not be able to reach the egg. The hormones also affect the lining of the uterus and the cervical mucus and reduces the chance of the egg getting fertilized.
Time Frame
To use the birth control patch, a woman must put the patch on the first day of the menstrual cycle and once every week (preferably on the same day of the week) for 3 consecutive weeks. She does not need to wear a patch on the fourth week.
Effects
The first-year failure rate of birth is 5-out-of-100 couples. The main reasons for failure are forgetting to put the patch on or removing the patch prematurely. Studies also show that the effectiveness of birth control patch depends on a woman's obesity and declines substantially for women 200 lbs. or more.
Warning
Side effects of birth control patches include nausea, dizziness, breast tenderness, mood changes, weight gain and menstrual camps. Studies that use birth control patches doubles the risk of non-fatal venous thromboembolic events. Birth control patches also significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases in women who smoke.
Considerations
The price of birth control patches is roughly $35 a month.
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