How Does a Birth Control Patch Work?

For maximum effectiveness, birth control pills must be taken on a daily basis, around the same time each day.

A birth control patch is a type of contraception that delivers estrogen and progesterone, the same hormones used in many birth control pills, via the skin. When you use birth control patches, you don’t have to remember to take pills every day. Once you attach the patch to your skin, it protects you against unwanted pregnancy for one week at a time. 

If you’re interested in finding out more about a more convenient way to prevent pregnancy, read on for more guidance on birth control patches from the Women’s Center at Life Point Medical in Clayton, Georgia, led by Monique Petteys, FNP-C. 

How birth control patches are used for preventing pregnancies 

Birth control patches are available based on a prescription. In most cases, medical specialists recommend the use of patches at the beginning of a menstrual cycle. 

Birth control patches are used for a week, three weeks in a row. On the fourth week, you don’t need to wear the patch. During this time, you’ll also have your menstruation. 

At the end of the fourth week, you apply the new patch. 

Patches are worn on the abdomen, arms, buttocks, and back. To reduce irritation from the patch, you may need to use the patch on a different area each week. 

What can impact the effectiveness of the birth control patch?

When used correctly, birth control patches are 99% effective at preventing pregnancies. 

However, there are a few factors that may impact their effectiveness, including having patches fall off or taking certain medications that may interfere with the hormones in the patch. 

Medications that can lower the effectiveness of birth control patches include antifungal drugs, anti-seizure drugs, and some antibiotics. 

Finding out if you’re a good candidate for birth control patches

The birth control patch is a good option for women who want to make avoiding pregnancy a little bit more convenient. 

Good candidates weigh less than 198 pounds. Also, they don’t have a history of breast cancer, clotting disorders, diabetes, liver disease, heart problems, or strokes. 

According to surveys, 88% of women who switched to birth control patches were very happy with their decision and experienced less inconvenience and fewer side effects associated with taking hormones. 

Are you interested in finding out if you’re a good candidate for the birth control patch? If so, call our office for an appointment, or book a consultation with Nurse Petteys online.