When considering a method of contraception, the options that present themselves are many. Physical barriers are one commonly used form of contraception, and include such devices as male and female condoms, diaphragms, spermicide, and others. Sterilization is another extreme measure of contraception that can manifest itself as a vasectomy in males, or tubal ligation in females. There are other forms of contraception, such as the morning after pill, intrauterine methods, and more, but the most common method behind physical barriers is hormonal regulation via some form of birth control. The most popular form of birth control is a contraceptive pill, which is taken on a regular basis. Other forms include injection, a vaginal ring, and more. The least invasive method of hormonal contraception, however, is the contraceptive patch. Contraceptive patches, also known as birth control patches, are placed on a woman’s arm, abdomen, thigh, or buttocks, and work by releasing hormones, sending them through the skin, and preventing ovulation.

Compared to having to take a pill at a specific time every day, being required to receive a shot every month or two, having to place a ring within the vaginal walls, or any other number of things, birth control patches offer a much easier, mindless, form of contraception. Currently the only form of birth control patch is the Ortho Evra/Evra birth control patch. The birth control patch is applied either on the first day of a woman’s menstrual cycle, or on the Sunday following that first day. The patch is then left on for seven days. After seven days, the patch is changed, and the new patch is left in place for another seven days. The cycle is repeated once more, and the fourth week no patch is worn. That’s it! The patch can be worn in very inconspicuous locations, and in most cases goes unnoticed by the wearer.

There have been some reported side effects from birth control patches, and should be considered before choosing this method of contraception. Some patients report nausea, discomfort at the location where the patch has been applied, and other small inconveniences. More serious side effects of birth control patches include: increased risk of pancreatitis, disturbances of liver function, worsening of depression, irregularity bleeding, and more. Along with all other forms of hormonal contraceptive, birth control patches come with the added risk of increasing susceptibility to thromboembolic and other vascular disorders. Essentially meaning that birth control patches, and every other form of hormonal contraceptive may increase risk for blood clots, and related disorders, a condition that can be intensified if users smoke or use other forms of tobacco.

Many people have found birth control patches to be a convenient alternative to other forms of contraception which may cause more discomfort or be more of a burden in daily life. If none of the side effects present themselves, birth control patches can certainly be declared the easiest form of contraceptive to use. And the good news is that in almost every study birth control patches have been shown as effective, or sometimes more effective, than other methods of contraception.