The Ease Of Using The Contraceptive Patch

Sometimes the basis for the decision of which contraceptive method to use is based on the simplicity and the convenience of use. This is why so many women use the Pill; all they need to do is remember to take their pill. This is the draw of another method; the contraceptive patch. It is even easier than taking the Pill. With this method of contraception a woman wears a patch for seven days, repeating this process three times until taking a week off during menstruation. Then the cycle repeats itself.

This may make it sound too simple, but truthfully it is not much different. The patch must be prescribed by a health care provider. Once purchased the patch, which looks a lot like a bandage, releases two different hormones into the body. These hormones will prevent pregnancy. A woman must pick a dry, clean, hairless spot, not on the breasts, to stick it. It remains in place for seven days and then it must be changed. A new patch is worn for the next seven days and then gains a new one for a last seven days. A woman will then remain without one for seven days to allow her to have a menstrual cycle after which she starts it all over again.

This method is ninety nine percent effective for women who weigh less than one hundred and ninety eight pounds. Women over this weight cut the effective rating to ninety two percent. It is important to make sure that the patch is checked daily to ensure it does not fall off. It should be worn in an area that is not high friction. If it falls off and it has been less than twenty four hours you can put it back on. If it has been longer you will need a new one. It is unwise to try to get it to stay on by using band aids or tape. If the sticky back is not longer sticky the only answer is to use a new one.

Since the medication is absorbed directly through the skin instead of being swallowed women find that they suffer much less the nausea that often accompanies taking the Pill. As well, stomach ills like food poisoning and diarrhea which can interfere with the Pill working do not affect the patch at all. These are some of the advantages to using the patch. Disadvantages include the patch falling off, the more serious issue is if a woman does not notice this since that could result in an unplanned pregnancy. Up to four percent of all women must cope with it falling off.

About two percent of women who try the patch find that it causes their skin to be irritated to such a degree that they cannot continue using the patch. Another disadvantage, particularly when comparing to the use of the Pill, is that there is no relief from period irregularities, cramps or heavy bleeding. The purpose of the patch is solely as a contraceptive method.

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