What is The Patch?
One Ortho Evra patch is worn each week for 3 consecutive weeks, usually on the lower abdomen or buttocks. The fourth week is patch-free to permit withdrawal bleeding. The 4.5 cm square patch delivers both estrogen and a progestin and this stops ovulation. Used correctly and consistently the patch leads to only 3 pregnancies amoung 1,000 women using patches for a year! You do not need a back-up method during the 7 patch-free days. Complete information about this method is available through your clinician and through the patch package insert.
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What are the advantages of The Patch?
- You don't have to take a pill daily or interrupt sex to use a barrier contraceptive.
- Patches decrease a woman's menstrual cramps and pain.
- Patches decrease the amount of menstrual bleeding and a woman's risk for anemia.
- Acne may improve and facial hair is diminished.
- Many women enjoy sex more when using Ortha Evra patches.
- You can use patches for an extended period of time or continuously (with no hormone-free intervals).
- Each patch has enough hormones to suppress ovulation for up to 9 days, so you can be a day or so late putting on the next patch. (Not recommended).
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What are the disadvantages of The Patch?
- Patches do not protect you from HIV or other infections. Use condoms if you may be at risk.
- You may have spotting (mostly during the first few cycles).
- Using patches may cause headaches, depression, mood changes, or decreased enjoyment of sex (infrequent).
- Serious complications such as blood clots may occur but are rare.
- Patches tend to be slightly more expensive than birth control pills. In early 2005 the cost of patches for one 28 day cycle is $38 to $45 in most pharmacies. This works out to $494 to $585 per year!
- Partial detachment of patches (2.8%) complete detachment (1.8%) and skin irritation may occur. Even less common (under 1%) is increased pigmentation of the skin under the patch. This hyperpigmentation may last for a number of months.
- A back-up contraceptive for 7 days is recommended if there is any question about starting use of a new patch late or if there is a question about the attachment of the patch.
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Where can I get The Patch?
You will need a prescription from your nurse practitioner, physician, nurse midwife or physician's associate.
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