Women who have trouble remembering to take a daily birth control pill or who can’t fathom the idea of getting a shot every three months now have another contraceptive option available to them. On Tuesday, November 20, 2001, the FDA announced approval of Ortho Evra, the first hormonal contraceptive transdermal patch. This patch releases both progesterone and estrogen hormones through the skin and into the bloodstream. The patch acts the same as an oral contraceptive when it comes to birth control, almost the only difference being that the patch is effective for a week.
The patch is a one-and-three quarter inch square adhesive that can be worn on the abdomen, buttocks, or upper body (except on the breasts). It is worn all day long every day for seven days straight. It is then replaced by a new one. This continues for three weeks and the fourth week nothing is worn. This is the week the woman will have her menstrual period.
Currently the patch only comes in a beige color but other colors are being discussed for future manufacturing. Also, the patch can be worn in the shower, while taking a bath, and even while exercising. During the experimental stages of the patch less than two percent of the patches had to be replaced due to detachment.
The transdermal contraceptive patch works by preventing eggs from being released from the ovaries. The hormones it releases also thicken the mucus that coats the cervix so that sperm cannot enter into the uterus. This form of birth control is also as effective as the birth control pill, about 99 percent. Although it is effective, it is imperative that you still use another form of protection (a condom) to protect yourself against sexually transmitted diseases.
As with any other type of birth control there can be serious and not so serious side effects. The most common side effect of the patch is a change in menstrual periods, including very light or even skipping periods. Some women also complain of spotting which is bleeding between periods. Some less common side effects include headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood swings, decrease in sex drive, and the infamous weight gain. Then there are the rare but extremely serious side effects like blood clots. Do not fret; there are advantages of taking a combination hormonal contraceptive like the patch. Using the patch allows uninterrupted foreplay and sex, reduces bleeding and cramping that comes with periods, reduces the risk of ovarian cysts and pelvic inflammatory disease. Combination hormonal contraception also protects against ovarian, uterine, and endometrial cancer.
Hopefully it won’t be long before we find a hormonal birth control method that men can take, but until then us women have to work with what we have. We can take a pill every day, get a shot every three months, or now, thanks to advancements in medicine, we can wear a patch for three weeks out of the month. Next thing we know we will have a hormonal contraceptive gum.
While I’m glad we have so many options open to us, I am still looking forward to the day when they come out with something that has fewer side effects. The sad part is that by the time that happens, if it does, I won’t need it anymore. If you are interested in learning more about the patch ask your doctor or call your local Family Planning. There is a Family Planning located on Highland Street in Plymouth and their phone number is 536-3584 if you would like more information. They can tell you more about the patch and where it is available. Whatever you decide, make sure you ask questions. Know everything there is to know about your choice of birth control before trying it.