The Ortho Evra Contraceptive Patch
There are several ways to prevent pregnancy and the Contraceptive Patch is one option. The Patch is a prescription birth control that is used weekly and sticks to a woman’s body. The Contraceptive Patch is square-shaped and measures 4 cm x 4 cm. It’s smooth, thin and plastic. Users stick a new patch to the skin once a week for three consecutive weeks every month on the same day each week. You do not have to use a patch in the fourth week. In that week women will usually get their periods.
The patch releases a regular flow of synthetic estrogen and progestin into the bloodstream through the skin and protects for 7 days against pregnancy. It works the same way as regular birth control pills, preventing the release of egg for sperm fertilzation. The patch is safe, discreet and convenient, and does not require applying every day. Also, the patch does not interfere with sexual spontaneity and does not prohibit activities such as swimming, showering or exercising. There are also additional benefits that may protect against painful menstrual cramps, excess body hair, depression, noncancerous breast growths, headaches, premenstrual symptoms, acne, infection in the fallopian tubes, ectopic pregnancy, and osteoporosis. There may be a few side effects such as mood changes, bleeding between periods, headaches, nausea, and the risk of blood clots in the legs and/or lungs may be higher with a patch compared to a regular birth control pill (of 35 mcg of estrogen). The patch can be a safe form of birth control for most healthy women. A woman should consult a doctor about her medical history before beginning use. This method of birth control is not recommended for women who are over the age of 35 and smoke cigarettes. Also, the patch is not recommended for women who have had a stroke or heart attack, uncontrolled high blood pressure, blood clots, certain inherited blood clotting disorders, may be pregnant, an abnormal growth or cancer of the breast, liver disease or liver growths. Medical doctor evaluation and blood pressure check is required before filling a prescription. Effectiveness of The Ortho Evra Patch is somewhere between 92 percent and 99.7 percent, which means that eight women out of one hundred will get pregnant when using the patch. The patch may be less effective for women over 200 pounds. The patch provides no protection against sexually transmitted diseases so a condom should be used every time during sexual intercourse. Manufacturers like Trojan, Durex, Lifestyles have a wide selection condom brands, styles and sizes so everyone can choose the one that is right for both partners. To prevent condom breakage, use the right lubricant. Water-based lubricants such as Astroglide are recommended because they do not damage the latex.
Note: The information given on this page is not intended to be a substitute for any professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
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