Hormonal Methods of Birth Control (cont.)
Contraceptive patch: Ortho-Evra
An adhesive patch has been developed that provides hormonal
contraception through the skin, which is known as a transdermal (through the
skin) delivery system. The patch is about the size of a half-dollar and can be
worn on the arm, abdomen, or buttocks. A woman wears the patch for a week and
then replaces it with a new patch.
These patches, called Ortho-Evra (ethinyl estradiol/norelgestromin patch-topical), are similar to the pill in that they
contain both estrogen and progesterone. Ortho-Evra should be just as effective
in preventing pregnancy as the pill. Ortho-Evra is similar to the pill in that
it suppresses ovulation and has the advantage of improved compliance and
convenience due to weekly administration. A woman only needs to remember to
replace the patch once a week instead of being required to remember taking a
pill every day. However, some studies have shown that the contraceptive patch
may be associated with a greater risk of negative side effects, such as blood-clotting problems, than oral contraceptive pills.
Women who have medical reasons why oral contraceptives are not recommended
(such as already having an underlying tendency toward blood clotting) may find
that their prescribing physician also recommends against Ortho-Evra because of
the similarity in the hormone ingredients of both types of contraceptives.
It is important to ensure that the patch makes good contact with the skin.
The patch could be a problem for those women who sweat a lot and/or take
frequent showers because moisture can interfere with the patch's contact with
the skin. Some women may also experience skin irritation at the site of the
patch. Furthermore, contraceptive failure may be a risk in heavier women (those
who weight over 198.4 pounds, or 90 kilograms).
As with all other hormonal methods of birth control, the patch will not
protect a woman against sexually transmitted infections.
Vaginal ring (NuvaRing)
A ring-shaped device that contains the hormones estradiol and
etonogetrel (a progestin) can be placed in the vagina. It remains in place for
three
weeks continuously, then it is removed for one week to allow for a menstrual
period. It continuously releases low levels of the hormone into the bloodstream
for the entire three weeks.
There is currently one brand available in the U.S., NuvaRing (etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol-vaginal ring). It is
about 99% effective in preventing pregnancy, having the same high effectiveness
as the other hormonal methods of contraception. The incidence of hormone-related
side effects is similar to those seen with other hormonal contraceptive methods
such as the pill and the patch. Vaginal discharge can sometimes occur as a side
effect of the ring preparation.
NuvaRing does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Next: Contraceptive implants »
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