WARNING

The birth control patch, like any other form of hormonal contraception, comes with potential risks and side effects. Here are some of the key risks associated with using the birth control patch:

• Increased risk of blood clots: Birth control patches contain hormones that can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the veins (venous thromboembolism). This risk is higher in women who smoke, are overweight, or have a history of blood clots.
• Cardiovascular risks: Hormonal contraceptives, including the patch, may slightly increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, particularly in women with other risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
• Side effects: Common side effects of the birth control patch include headaches, breast tenderness, nausea, and mood changes. Some women may also experience skin irritation at the patch site.
• Increased risk of certain health conditions: There may be a slightly increased risk of certain health conditions associated with hormonal contraceptives, such as liver tumors and gallbladder disease.
• Effectiveness: While the birth control patch is highly effective when used correctly, its effectiveness can be reduced if it is not applied or changed according to the instructions.
• Interactions with other medications: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics and anticonvulsants, can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives like the patch. It’s important to discuss potential interactions with your healthcare provider.
• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to the adhesive in the patch or to the hormones themselves, leading to skin irritation or other allergic reactions.

It’s essential to discuss your medical history, lifestyle, and any concerns with your healthcare provider before starting any form of hormonal contraception, including the birth control patch. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits and choose the most suitable option for you.

Why is this medication prescribed?

The birth control patch is prescribed primarily to prevent pregnancy. It contains hormones (usually a combination of estrogen and progestin) that work by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg, and thinning the uterine lining to make it less receptive to implantation.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how the birth control patch should typically be used:

• Start of use: The patch is usually started on the first day of a woman’s menstrual cycle (the first day of her period). It can also be started on the Sunday after menstruation begins, but in that case, backup contraception (such as condoms) should be used for the first week.
• Application: The patch is a small, thin, square piece that sticks to the skin. It can be applied to the buttocks, abdomen, upper outer arm, or upper torso (excluding the breasts). It should be applied to clean, dry, intact skin and pressed firmly to ensure proper adhesion.
• Changing the patch: The patch is worn for one week (7 days), and then a new patch is applied on the same day each week for three weeks in a row. The fourth week is patch-free, during which menstruation typically occurs. After the patch-free week, a new cycle begins with the application of a new patch.
• Cycle continuation: It’s important to maintain the patch application schedule consistently to ensure effectiveness. If a patch becomes loose or falls off, it should be replaced with a new one as soon as possible. If the patch is off for more than 48 hours, backup contraception may be necessary.
• Skipping periods: Some women may choose to skip their periods by continuously wearing the patch without taking a patch-free week. This is generally safe and can be discussed with a healthcare provider.
• Interactions with other medications: Certain medications, such as some antibiotics and anticonvulsants, can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives like the patch. It’s important to discuss potential interactions with a healthcare provider.

It’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by a healthcare provider and the information provided with the patch packaging to ensure safe and effective use. Additionally, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are recommended to monitor for any potential side effects or complications.

Other uses for this medicine

As for other uses, the birth control patch is primarily used for contraception. However, some women may experience other benefits, such as:

• Regulating Menstrual Cycles: The hormones in the patch can help regulate menstrual cycles, making periods more predictable and reducing symptoms like cramping and heavy bleeding.
• Reducing Acne: Some women may notice an improvement in acne while using the birth control patch due to its hormonal effects.
• Treatment of Endometriosis: In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe hormonal contraceptives like the patch to help manage symptoms of endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using the birth control patch, consider the following:

• Regular check-ups: It’s important to schedule regular check-ups with a healthcare provider while using the birth control patch to monitor for any potential side effects or complications.
• Avoiding smoking: Smoking while using hormonal contraceptives, including the patch, increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, such as blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. It’s best to avoid smoking, especially if you are over 35 years old.
• Monitoring for signs of blood clots: Be aware of the signs and symptoms of blood clots, such as leg pain or swelling, chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden severe headache. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
• Managing skin irritation: If you experience skin irritation at the patch site, you can try applying the patch to a different area of the body or using over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation. If irritation persists, consult your healthcare provider.
• Using backup contraception: If you miss a patch or if it becomes loose or falls off for more than 48 hours, backup contraception (such as condoms) may be necessary to prevent pregnancy.
• Discussing interactions: Talk to your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you are taking, as some medications may interact with hormonal contraceptives and reduce their effectiveness.

Following these precautions can help ensure safe and effective use of the birth control patch.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for using the birth control patch are generally not necessary. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, which can contribute to overall well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Less than 48 hours late: If you realize you’ve forgotten to change your patch and it’s been less than 48 hours since your patch was due to be changed, apply a new patch immediately. Continue your regular schedule, changing the patch on the same day of the week you usually do.
• More than 48 hours late: If it’s been more than 48 hours since your patch was due to be changed, apply a new patch immediately. You may need to use backup contraception (such as condoms) for the next seven days to ensure protection against pregnancy. Consult the instructions provided with your patch or contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

The birth control patch, like other forms of hormonal contraception, can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of the birth control patch may include:

• Skin irritation: Some people may experience skin irritation or redness at the patch application site. This irritation usually resolves on its own but may require moving the patch to a different location.
• Breast tenderness: Changes in hormone levels can cause breast tenderness or swelling.
• Headaches: Headaches are a common side effect of hormonal contraception, including the birth control patch.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea or stomach upset, especially when first starting the patch.
• Mood changes: Changes in hormone levels can affect mood in some individuals, leading to mood swings, irritability, or depression.
• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding: Irregular bleeding between periods (spotting) or breakthrough bleeding may occur, especially during the first few months of patch use.
• Changes in menstrual cycle: The birth control patch can sometimes cause changes in menstrual flow or cycle length. Periods may become lighter, heavier, shorter, or longer, or they may stop altogether.
• Decreased libido: Some individuals may experience a decrease in sexual desire while using hormonal contraception.
• Weight changes: While not common, some individuals may experience slight weight gain or weight loss while using the birth control patch.
• Other less common side effects: Less common side effects of the birth control patch may include dizziness, fatigue, bloating, changes in appetite, or changes in vaginal discharge.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience no side effects at all. Additionally, some side effects may improve or resolve over time as your body adjusts to the hormonal changes caused by the patch. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, or if you have any concerns about the side effects you’re experiencing, it’s essential to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and help determine whether the birth control patch is the right choice for you.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of the birth control patch, here’s what you should know:

• Storage: Store the birth control patch at room temperature (between 68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C) away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or in places with extreme temperatures.
• Disposal: After removing the patch, fold it in half so that the adhesive side sticks to itself, then dispose of it in a trash receptacle out of the reach of children and pets. Do not flush the patch down the toilet, as it may not completely dissolve and could contribute to environmental pollution.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency medical attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as chest pain, trouble breathing, severe headache, vision problems, or fainting, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• Poison control: If you’re in the United States, you can contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do in case of overdose or accidental ingestion of the birth control patch.

What other information should I know?

• Effectiveness: The birth control patch is most effective when used consistently and correctly according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the information leaflet that comes with the patch.
• Follow-up appointments: It’s important to attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the birth control patch and to discuss any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing.
• Regular check-ups: While using the birth control patch, it’s essential to schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your overall health and assess the need for continued use of the patch.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you are taking, as certain medications may interact with the birth control patch and affect its effectiveness.
• Pregnancy: If you become pregnant while using the birth control patch, stop using it and contact your healthcare provider immediately.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the use, storage, disposal, and potential risks associated with the birth control patch, you can use it safely and effectively.