LOCALLY, the most popular birth control methods are condoms and oral contraceptive pills; however, like the intrauterine device and the birth control shot, the patch is a novel but effective method of providing birth control.

According to obstetrician-gynaecologist Dr Ryan Halsall, the patch has been around for some time and as the name suggests, it’s a sticky square patch that’s applied to the skin that provides pregnancy protection.

Dr Halsall said being only 5x 5 cm, it’s easy to conceal for those concerned about others knowing their business.

The ObGyn said it contains the same hormones that are found in the regular oral contraceptive pill, and as such it works in the exact same way to prevent pregnancy.

“It prevents egg production, thins the lining of the womb and thickens the mucus in the cervix, which prevents the sperm getting up to the egg,” he said.

Dr Halsall explained that each pack comes with three patches, which are each worn for a week. The fourth week should be patch-free, during which there should be bleeding.

The main advantage when compared to the pill, according to Dr Halsall, is that the woman doesn’t have to remember to pop a pill every day, making it far more effective for everyday use.

“Many women often find it hard to remember to take the pill on time, a practice that can cause unwanted pregnancies,” Dr Halsall said. “The patch prevents this, requiring the user to have to remember to change it just once per week. The other advantage over the pill includes that it’s not affected by vomiting and diarrhoea.”

Dr Halsall added that the patch has similar non-contraceptive benefits such as lighter, shorter periods, reducing pre-menstrual syndrome and even reducing the risk of ovarian and bowel cancer.

But one main drawback is that the retail cost is roughly $4,500 per month in some pharmacies, and when compared to some pills that cost less than $500, it’s actually one of the more expensive methods out there.

With regards to risks and complications, Dr Halsall said the patch carries the same risks and cautions as the contraceptive pill including blood clots, stroke, nausea and breast tenderness.

“So obese women, women over 35 who smoke, or women with a history of blood clots are advised to stay away from it.”

Moreover, as with all contraceptive methods, the ObGyn said it’s important to discuss your options and suitability with your gynaecologist before starting.

“There are many little things that one should know while on the patch, including what to do if it falls off and what to do if you forget to change it on time,” he said.

He said most pharmacies in Jamaica do carry it, but a prescription is required.

–KH