The birth control patch is a transdermal hormonal contraceptive designed to prevent pregnancy. This small, thin patch adheres to the skin, continuously releasing hormones into the bloodstream. It offers a consistent method of contraception, removing the need for daily attention.
How the Patch Works and Its Effectiveness
The birth control patch prevents pregnancy by delivering synthetic estrogen and progestin hormones through the skin into the bloodstream. These hormones stop the ovaries from releasing an egg each month, a process known as ovulation. The patch also thickens cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to travel, and thins the uterine lining, making it less hospitable for a fertilized egg to implant.
When used perfectly, the patch is highly effective, preventing pregnancy in about 99% of users annually. With typical use, its effectiveness rate drops to approximately 91-94%. Factors such as a user’s weight, particularly if it exceeds 198 pounds (90 kg), may also reduce the patch’s effectiveness.
The User Experience Day-to-Day
The patch offers convenience, requiring weekly application. Users apply a new patch once a week for three consecutive weeks, followed by a patch-free week for menstruation. The patch remains securely attached during regular activities, including bathing, swimming, and exercise, with few users requiring replacement due to detachment.
Some individuals may experience skin irritation or redness at the application site. Rotating the patch to a different approved location each week, such as the buttocks, upper arm, abdomen, or upper torso (excluding the breasts), can help minimize this issue. The patch is a visible, beige square on the skin, which some users might find noticeable depending on placement and clothing choices.
Common Side Effects and Health Risks
Upon starting the birth control patch, individuals may experience common hormonal side effects as their body adjusts. These can include breast tenderness, headaches, nausea, or mood changes. Breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods is also reported in the initial months of use. Many of these effects typically subside after two to three menstrual cycles.
A more serious, though less common, health concern associated with the patch is an increased risk of blood clots. This risk is slightly higher for patch users compared to those taking some combined oral contraceptive pills, potentially due to higher estrogen exposure. Healthcare providers assess individual risk factors such as smoking, age over 35, or a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater, as these can further elevate the risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke. One specific patch, Xulane, carries a boxed warning regarding this increased risk, particularly for individuals with obesity.
Cost and Getting a Prescription
The cost of the birth control patch can vary depending on insurance coverage and the specific brand. Without health insurance, a monthly supply may range from approximately $47 to $175. Many health insurance plans, especially those under the Affordable Care Act, may cover FDA-approved birth control methods like the patch with no out-of-pocket cost. Manufacturers also offer savings cards or programs that can reduce the cost for eligible commercially insured patients.
The birth control patch is a prescription-only medication, requiring a consultation with a healthcare provider. Common brands available in the U.S. include Xulane and Twirla, with Zafemy also being a similar option. During the consultation, a healthcare provider will review medical history and blood pressure to determine if the patch is a suitable contraceptive option. Prescriptions can be obtained through in-person clinic visits or via telehealth services.