Are you considering a family planning method? Or are you looking for an alternative to your current method? Then you've probably heard of the skin patch. This is a simple method that can be used as an alternative to family planning pills, and is applied to the skin. Today, we'll talk about it in detail, in a way that's easy for you to understand.
What does this patch mean?
Simply put, it's a form of birth control. To be precise, it's a small patch that contains hormones and is stuck to the skin. It contains two types of female hormones, estrogen and progestin . When you stick the patch on your skin, it slowly releases these hormones into your body.
The main function of these hormones is to prevent the release of an egg from the ovaries, that is, to prevent ovulation . If an egg is not released, there is nothing for a sperm to fertilize, so pregnancy cannot occur. This is the basic function of this patch.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this
This is a very important point. Because this hormone patch is not suitable for everyone, it is very important for your own safety to be honest about your health when talking to your doctor. Especially if you have any of the conditions below, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
| Condition/Occasion | Things to consider |
|---|---|
| Heart, blood vessel and blood related problems | High blood pressure, heart disease, recent heart attack, stroke, blood clotting disorders, high cholesterol or triglyceride levels. |
| Cancerous conditions | If you have or have had breast, cervical, uterine, ovarian or liver cancer. |
| Other medical conditions | Diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, gallbladder disease, migraine, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). |
| Lifestyle and other matters | If you are a smoker (especially over 35), have recently had a baby, have had a miscarriage, or are preparing for any surgery. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to estrogen, progestin, or any other medication or food. |
How do you use the patch correctly?
This is very easy to use, but you have to follow the instructions exactly.
1. First, choose a good place to apply the patch. Choose a spot that won't be rubbed by tight clothing, such as your buttocks, abdomen (belly), outer upper arm, or upper torso .
2. The skin should be clean and dry before applying the patch. Do not apply any lotion, cream, or oil to the area.
3. Remove the protective film from the patch, apply it to the skin, and press it firmly for about 10 seconds . Only then will it stick to the skin properly.
4. For 3 weeks, remove the old patch and apply a new one on the same day each week (for example, every Sunday).
5. After 3 weeks, do not apply a patch in the 4th week . You will have your period during this week.
6. When that week is over, start a new cycle again, with a new patch, just like before.
Important: If the patch comes off or is left off for more than a day, you should use an additional method of birth control (e.g., condoms). In such cases, consult your doctor immediately.
If you think you have used more than the prescribed amount, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What other medications may interact with this patch?
This is also something to be careful of. Some medications you take can reduce the effectiveness of this patch. This means that using the patch with those medications can increase the risk of pregnancy. Also, some medications can increase the side effects.
The list below is just a few of the medications that can cause this.
- Antibiotics and other medications for infections (especially those in the Rifampin group)
- Medicines for epilepsy (fits) (e.g. Carbamazepine, Phenytoin)
- Medicines for viral diseases such as HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis
- Some medications for fungal infections
- Herbal medicines such as St. John's wort
- Medications for diabetes
- Blood thinners such as Warfarin
Therefore, it is essential to inform your doctor about all medications you take, including vitamins and herbal supplements .
Other things to consider when using the patch
- Smoking and Risk: If you are a smoker, especially if you are over 35, your risk of blood clots and stroke is much higher when using this patch. Therefore, we strongly advise you to completely avoid smoking if you are using this patch.
- Regular medical checkups: While using this medication, it is important to see your doctor at regular intervals for checkups. It is important to have breast exams and Pap smears.
- If you suspect you are pregnant: Stop using the patch immediately and talk to your doctor.
- Sun sensitivity: This patch may make some people's skin sensitive to the sun. Therefore, it is a good idea to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when going out in the sun.
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs): This is very important. This patch only prevents pregnancy. It does not protect you from HIV (AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases. You must use another method of contraception, such as a condom.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medication, this can cause side effects in some people. Some of them can be serious, so it's important to be aware of them.
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Symptoms of blood clots | Leg pain, swelling or warmth, difficulty breathing, chest pain. |
| Symptoms of Stroke | Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking, confusion, difficulty walking, severe headache. |
| Symptoms of liver damage | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, and light-colored stools. |
| Other serious symptoms | Increased blood pressure, new or increasing migraines, depression, abnormal vaginal discharge. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to your doctor if they persist | |
| Breast pain or tightness | Feeling some pain or tenderness in the breasts. |
| Changes in the menstrual cycle | Irregular periods or light bleeding (spotting) between periods. |
| Other minor ailments | Nausea, weight gain, dark spots on the face or sun-exposed skin. |
Take-Home Message
- This birth control patch is a hormonal medication and is not suitable for everyone, so be sure to talk to a doctor before using it.
- Tell your doctor about your complete medical history and all medications you take.
- Use the patch exactly as directed (apply for 3 weeks, rest for 1 week).
- If you are a smoker, especially if you are over 35, your risk of blood clots is very high. It is essential to quit smoking.
- This patch only protects against pregnancy. Use a method such as a condom to protect against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.
- Be aware of the symptoms of serious side effects. If you experience any of these, seek medical advice immediately.
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