Define birth control patch

Of course, the chance of getting pregnant depends on whether you use the patch correctly. Delaying or missing a weekly application or removing a patch too early lowers its effectiveness and increases the chance a girl will become pregnant.

For girls who weigh more than pounds 90 kilograms , the contraceptive patch may be less effective in preventing pregnancy.

In general, how well each type of birth control method works depends on a lot of things. These include whether a person has any health conditions or is taking any medicines that might interfere with the patch. How effective the patch is at preventing pregnancy also depends on whether the method chosen is convenient — and whether the person remembers to use it correctly all the time.

The birth control patch does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases STDs. Couples having sex must always use condoms along with the birth control patch to protect against STDs. Abstinence the decision to not have sex or any genital intimacy is the only method that always prevents pregnancy and STDs. The birth control patch is a safe and effective method of birth control. Most young women who use the patch have no side effects.

Smoking cigarettes while using the patch can increase a girl's risk of certain side effects, which is why health professionals advise women who use the patch not to smoke.

The side effects that some women have while using the patch are similar to those experienced with the birth control pill. These may include:. The birth control patch may be a good choice for sexually active young women who weigh less than pounds 90 kilograms and find it difficult to remember to take a pill every day or who have difficulty swallowing pills. Not all women can — or should — use the birth control patch. The patch is a prescription and must be obtained from your healthcare provider.

The patch is worn for one week at a time and it is placed directly on the skin of your buttocks, stomach, upper arm or upper torso. The patch is replaced once a week on the same day each week for three weeks in a row. The patch is not worn during the fourth week to allow your menstrual flow to occur at this time. The patch may not protect you from pregnancy if you are taking antibiotics or medications for fungal infections or seizures. The patch may not prevent pregnancy if you weigh pounds or more.

The patch has side effects similar to those experienced by users of oral or other hormonal types of contraception including:. Additional side effects may include yeast infections , contact lens problems, and depression. This increased level of estrogen can lead to risks such as blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:.

Women who wish to use the birth control patch should seek additional consultation with their physician if they are experiencing any of the following medical concerns :.

Ovulation usually returns within three menstrual cycles after discontinuing the patch. Pregnancy is possible when you stop using the birth control patch. The birth control patch should NOT be considered as a means for protection against the transmission of sexually transmitted infections.

The patch begins to work immediately, but the second form of birth control should be used during the first seven days of the first month the patch is used. Learn about Plan B alternatives here. Everything you need to know about the birth control patch.

Duration of effects Summary The birth control patch, also known as the contraceptive patch, is a hormonal form of birth control that releases hormones through the skin to prevent pregnancy. What is a birth control patch, and how does it work? Share on Pinterest Birth control patches require replacing each week to work effectively. How effective is the birth control patch? Birth control patch benefits. Side effects of the birth control patch.

How much does the birth control patch cost? Where to get a birth control patch. How to use a birth control patch. Who can use a birth control patch? How long do the effects of the patch last? New biomarker may help improve depression treatment.

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What you should know about non-hormonal birth control. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. The Pill Club review: Is it trustworthy? Pill Club is a popular telehealth birth control service. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Sexual Health. Birth Control Patch Side Effects. Side effects Risks Other things to consider Takeaway What is the birth control patch? What are the side effects?

Are there any serious risks associated with it? What else should I know? The bottom line. Read this next. How to Apply a Transdermal Patch. Medically reviewed by Daniel Murrell, M.