Please read these two important health warnings regarding the patch: here and here.
The Ortho Evra contraceptive patch is a relatively newer form of reversible contraception. It is a 4 x 4 cm beige patch that sticks to a woman’s skin and continuously releases estrogen and a progestin (female hormones) into the bloodstream. The patch does not protect against any STDs, including HIV.
other side effects may include:
- Breakthrough bleeding (between periods)
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches and/or nausea as your body gets used to the hormones
- Skin irritation
The patch is very “sticky”. While this is obviously important so it won’t fall off, some people are irritated by the adhesive.
Because it can be easy to forget, it can also be easy to forget if it has fallen off. Women using the patch need to be careful that it is secure each week for the three week period, and if it does fall off that they follow the instructions appropriately, and use a back up form of birth control until the patch is fully effective.
- The patch may not be as effective for women who weigh more than 198 pounds.
- As with the birth control pill, some common medicines and herbal remedies may make the patch less effective, including yeast infection treatments and St. John’s Wort. For this reason it is important to talk to your doctor about any possible conflict with the patch that may be relevant to you.
- Women who are 35 or older and smoke cigarettes
- Women with a history of high blood pressure, some blood clotting disorders, heart attacks, or certain kinds of stroke you should not use the ring.
For other specific concerns talk to your health care practitioner.
Contraception Information on About.com
The following information is compiled from a variety of sources, including the CDC, information from drug manufacturers, Planned Parenthood, and Family Health International.
We strive to keep this information up to date, but new studies and information about side effects and effectiveness may not be reflected immediately in this information. This should be used as a guide only, and a health care professional should be consulted when considering a new or changed contraceptive method.
Updated December 18, 2005.
