Remembering to take your birth control pill every day can be a bit of a hassle, right? If you miss a day, you'll feel scared. So today we're going to talk about a very easy, convenient birth control method that could be a good solution. That's the birth control patch that you stick on your skin. You've probably heard of it before. Let's take a look at everything about this method in simple terms.
What is a birth control patch?
Simply put, it's a small, thin, plaster-like thing that you stick on your skin. It's usually light brown in color and has a square shape. It's a form of birth control. It's like birth control pills, but you don't have to take it, you just put it on. You have to use this patch for three weeks, then take a week off. But you can't buy it at a pharmacy, you have to see a doctor and get a prescription from him.
How does this patch prevent pregnancy?
Here's something really interesting. There are two hormones inside this patch. They are estrogen and progestin . When you put this patch on your skin, these hormones are absorbed through your skin into your bloodstream. It's like a plant absorbing water. When these hormones enter your body, they do three main things.
1. Stopping Ovulation: Normally, once a month, a woman's ovaries release an egg. This is called ovulation. For pregnancy to occur, a sperm must meet the egg. So the hormones in this patch stop the release of an egg. If there is no egg, there is nothing for the sperm to fertilize. So pregnancy does not occur.
2. Thickening of cervical mucus: The mucus, a slimy liquid, in the cervix thickens due to these hormones. Think of it as being harder to swim in thick jelly than in water. Similarly, when this mucus thickens, it becomes very difficult for sperm to swim into the uterus.
3. Thinning of the uterine lining: Even if an egg is fertilized in some way, it must implant in the uterine lining. These hormones thin the uterine lining, making it impossible for a fertilized egg to implant and grow there.
Simply put, this patch blocks all three chances for sperm to meet an egg, protecting you from pregnancy.
How to use the patch?
It's very easy to use. It works on a four-week cycle. You can start the patch the same day your doctor recommends it, but only if you're absolutely sure you're not pregnant.
Here is the cycle of using the patch.
| Week | What to do |
|---|---|
| Week 1, 2 and 3 | Apply a new patch once a week. If you started on Sunday, you should remove the old one the following Sunday and apply a new one. Do this for three consecutive Sundays. |
| Week 4 | After you remove the patch in the third week, do not apply a new patch in the fourth week. This is the "patch-free week." This is when you will have your period. |
| Next cycle | When the fourth week is over, that is, after 7 days, it doesn't matter if you still have your period, just apply a new patch and start a new cycle. |
Very important: You must use a backup method of contraception, such as a condom , for the first week you start using the patch. After that week, if you use the patch exactly, you will not need another method.
Also, remember, this patch does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so it's best to use a condom.
Where on the body should the patch be applied?
You can't stick this patch anywhere on your body. There are a few designated places for it.
- In the upper arm area
- In the lower back area, close to the buttocks
- Below the navel, in the lower abdomen
- On the upper back, close to the shoulder blades
Places not to apply: Do not apply this patch near the breasts, or on any cuts, scrapes, or redness of the skin. Also, it is best to change the patch location slightly each week, rather than sticking it in the same spot.
What if I forget to change the patch?
This happens to many people. Don't worry. If you forget to change your patch, apply a new one as soon as you remember. What you do next depends on how long it's been since you forgot to change it.
| Status | What to do |
|---|---|
| If it is less than 48 hours late | Apply a new patch as soon as you remember. Do not change your usual patch change day. No additional birth control is needed. |
| If it is more than 48 hours late (more than 2 days) | Apply a new patch as soon as you remember. Keep your usual patch change day. But be sure to use an extra form of birth control, such as a condom, for the next 7 days. You can use emergency contraception if necessary. But it is best to ask your doctor for advice. |
If you have any doubts, the best thing to do is to talk to your doctor and use an additional form of birth control for the next 7 days.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this method?
Like any birth control method, this patch has its pros and cons. It's important to be aware of both before making a decision.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| - You don't have to remember every day, just once a week. - Very easy to use. - Regulates menstruation and reduces pain. - Acne may be reduced. - You can stop at any time, and you can get pregnant again as soon as you stop. | - Remember to change it once a week. - Some people can see the patch when it is applied. - There is no protection against sexually transmitted diseases. - Some people may experience skin irritation where the patch is applied. - The risk of blood clots may be slightly increased. - This may be less effective for people with a body mass index (BMI) of over 30 (those who are obese). |
Are there people who shouldn't use this patch?
Yes, this method is not suitable for everyone. If you have any of the following conditions, your doctor may recommend a different method for you.
- If you are over 35 years old and a smoker.
- If you have uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure.
- If you have had blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes in the past.
- If you have a special type of migraine called ``Migraines with aura``.
- If there is vaginal bleeding for no known reason.
- If you are using some other medications.
This is why it is so important to see a doctor, tell him or her your complete health history, and decide if this method is right for you.
When should you see a doctor?
If you experience any of these symptoms while using the patch, see a doctor immediately.
- Signs of a blood clot: swelling, redness, or pain in the legs.
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing.
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (Jaundice).
- Continuous absence of menstruation during the patch-free week. (This may be normal, but it is best to check with a doctor to make sure).
Take-Home Message
- The birth control patch is a good, convenient, once-a-week method of birth control for those who have trouble remembering to take their pills every day.
- The success of this depends on how well you follow the instructions. If used exactly, it is 99% effective.
- This method is not suitable for everyone. Before using it, be sure to talk to a doctor to find out if it is suitable for your health condition.
- This does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STIs). It is important to use a condom.
- Be aware of any unusual symptoms that occur while using the patch, and seek medical advice immediately if necessary.
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