Ortho Evra: Is "the Patch" a Good Choice for Birth Control?

Ortho Evra, "the patch," is a birth control method involving the use of a patch adhered to the skin once a week for three weeks, followed by a free week. When used as directed, Ortho Evra is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, according to Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals.

Ortho Evra - Convenience

Ortho Evra rates high in the convenience factor. Users simply apply a patch once a week to the skin for three weeks in a row. During the fourth week, they take a break from the patch and have their period.

Ortho Evra - Side Effects

According to Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Ortho Evra users may experience nausea, breast discomfort, skin irritation, headaches, vaginal bleeding, fluid retention, elevated blood pressure, problems associated with wearing contact lenses, and more. Some users have experienced blood clots, stroke and heart attacks. Smokers, especially those over age 35, are at a greater risk for serious side effects.

While any hormonal contraceptive poses health risks, Ortho Evra releases 60% more estrogen than the typical 35 mg of estrogen released by birth control pills. Therefore, the risks of side effects associated with use of Ortho Evra may be greater than those associated with birth control pills, according to Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals.

Ortho Evra - My Experience

Because I had trouble remembering to take a pill every day, Ortho Evra proved a reliable and simple to use birth control method for me. After placing the patch, I was free to forget about birth control for a week. Knowing that I was protected from pregnancy without the hassle of a daily pill was liberating.

Unfortunately, I began experiencing debilitating migraines while using Ortho Evra. I sought medical attention for the headaches and learned that I suffered from high blood pressure. In my late-20s, an otherwise fit and healthy non-smoker, I found that Ortho Evra's side effects sentenced me to a life of daily pills.

Today, several years later, no exercise or diet controls my high blood pressure. When I forget to take my daily blood pressure pill, the migraines return to serve as a reminder. Nonetheless, I count myself fortunate to not have fallen victim to stroke or heart attack as a side effect of birth control.

Ortho Evra - Is "the Patch" a Good Choice for Birth Control?

Despite its convenience, the use of Ortho Evra poses life changing, even life threatening risks. As a former user of this product, I cannot in good faith recommend it to anyone, be they a high risk group or young and healthy.

Women should consult their doctor before making a decision to use this method of birth control.

Source:
Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, "Full US Product Information for ORTHO EVRA^® ", Ortho Evra.