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Using the Contraceptive Patch Convenience but not Without Risk

charliexx24 | Aug 12, 2009 |

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The convenience and confidentiality which the contraceptive patch promises the user is praiseworthy. No more worrying about missed pills or broken condoms. The patch simply is stuck on to the skin and got to be changed after every 7 days. The woman uses three patches in three weeks and then takes a break on the fourth week, when no patch is used. The contraceptive patch is undoubtedly one of the most effective ways to prevent pregnancy, at par with any reputed birth control pill, in terms of efficacy.

The mechanism of action of a contraceptive patch is very similar to that of a pill. Both release synthetic female hormones, estrogen and progestagen, which prevent ovulation and subsequently pregnancy. Thickening of cervical mucus is also another way the patch can prevent conception. These hormones released by the patch stays in the bloodstream through out the time of use. With both the mechanisms of action being similar, it is normal to expect the side effect profiles of both the contraceptive tools to be similar too. These include weight gain, lack of sexual desire, vaginal discharge, menstrual irregularity, nausea, headache, skin disorders and gum inflammation. While many women find such side effects resulting from use of the contraceptive patch bearable, there are reports that women are also facing more serious side effects like blood clots, thrombotic problems, etc. The matter is under research by scientists.

Despite the growing popularity of the contraceptive patch, it is gradually coming to light that the convenience of this type of contraceptive method is not without its fair share of health risks. In fact, there have been several reports of rising instances of serious thromboembotic problems like stroke, myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism and heart attack. While the exact number of women who have experienced such adverse events is not yet know, according to export opinion the root cause of such problems could lie in the constant absorption of estrogen (20 micrograms) and progestagen by the body that happens when the woman is wearing a patch.

The problem is precipitated by the fact that though the amount of estrogen is low, only 20 mcg, it is absorbed over a long period of time. In fact one of the leading makers of the patch received a warning from FDA recently that their brand of patch is exposing the woman to 60% more estrogen than what is containing in a pill.

In summary, though the contraceptive patch means both efficacy and convenience for the woman when she wants to prevent pregnancy, she also has to keep in mind the risk factors associated with it.