What is it?
A very thin, soft, square patch that can be worn on any of 4 application sites (the buttock, abdomen, upper torso - except for breasts, or the upper outer arm).  Looks like a bandaid about 1 inch square.

How does it work?
The birth control patch contains synthetic hormons similar to estrogen and progesterone produced by the body.  It prevents ovulation (ovaries do not release egg), affects the lining of the uterus, thickens cervical mucus (making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus), stops sperm, prevents fertilization.  When you apply the patch to your body, the hormones are transferred through your skin and into the bloodstream (transdermal administration).

How do I use it?
Each patch is worn for 1 week at a time for 3 consecutive weeks.  The fourth week is patch-free (your period should begin during this week). 

How reliable is it?
When used correctly, as with birth control pills, the patch is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Are there any hormones involved?
Yes

Does this type of contraceptive offer protection from STI/STDs?
No

What are the advantages?
The patch allows for spontaneity.  It is easy to use and for most women, easier to use consistently and correctly than other alternatives such as the birth control pill, as it does not require a daily regimen.  The patch usually decreases the size and length of periods and decreases cramps. 

What are the disadvantages?
There are various side effects that may occur (see below).  Effectiveness is reduced when used with certain antibiotics or barbituates.  The patch may irritate contact lense wearers.  It may also increase the chance of breast cancer.

Are there any side effects or health risks that I should discuss with my healthcare provider?
The patch may cause nausea and vomiting, breast symptoms (i.e. tenderness), headache, menstrual cramps, weight gain or loss, water retention, increased blood pressure, mood changes, skin irritation near the patch and/or abdominal pain.

Where do I get it?
Prescription and Clinic Visit required.

How often do I need to use it?
The patch is applied once a week for 3 weeks.

• The patch should not affect your ability to become pregnant after you stop the birth control patch if you had regular periods prior to starting a hormonal contraceptive.

• If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
• If you have a history of heart attack or stroke
• If you have blood clots in the legs (thrombophlebitis), lungs (pulmonary embolism), or eyes
• If you have a history of blood clots in the deep veins of your legs
• If you suffer from chest pain (angina pectoris)
• If you have known or suspected breast cancer or cancer of the lining of the uterus, cervix, or vagina
• If you have unexplained vaginal bleeding (until your healthcare professional reaches a diagnosis)
• If you have hepatitis or yellowing of the whites of your eyes or of the skin (jaundice) during pregnancy or during previous use of hormonal contraceptives
• If you have a liver tumor (benign or cancerous)
• If you have severe high blood pressure
• If you have diabetes with complications of the kidney, eyes, nerves, or blood vessels
• If you have headaches with neurological symptoms
• If you have a disease of heart valves with complications
• If you are using oral contraceptives at the same time
  
• If you have the need for a prolonged period of bed rest following major surgery
• If you have an allergy to any of the components of the patch
• If you weigh 198 lb. or more, talk to your healthcare professional.  The birth control patch may not be the most appropriate choice for you.
  
• If you smoke cigarettes (it increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects from oral contraceptives).  This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking (15 or more cigarettes per day) and is quite marked in women over 35 years of age.  Women who use oral contraceptives are strongly advised not to smoke.