Birth control is always a hot topic these days, and I thought you guys might like a little background information about the birth control patch, another method of contraception.  Editor

Advantages of the Birth Control Patch

Many women are discovering the advantages of choosing the birth control patch as their method of contraception.

What does the birth control patch look like?

The birth control patch is a thin square patch that is adhered to the skin, much like a band-aid.  It’s left on for an entire week at which time the patch is replaced with a new one.  When it is time to replace the birth control patch it’s placed in a different spot than the previous one. This is done for a period of three weeks.  On the fourth week no patch is applied to the skin and the woman has her period. 

How does it work?

Just as birth control pills contain hormones, the birth control patch does as well.  The hormones are absorbed through the skin’s surface and into the blood stream.  The purpose of the hormones is to regulate the reproductive system so that ovulation doesn’t occur. 

Some women are a bit wary about trying the birth control patch because they are concerned that it might come off while they are bathing or swimming.  The patch is actually designed to be worn full-time even during activities where the body is wet or exerted. 

If the patch does happen to fall off it’s really important to refer to the literature that came with it.  In it will be suggestions about what to do and also it will strongly suggest that another form of birth control be practiced in the interim.

Attention:

The birth control patch is not a method of treating or preventing sexually transmitted diseases.  Its sole purpose is to reduce the risk of pregnancy.  Therefore it’s still advisable for a couple to use a condom to prevent the spread of any illness.

Most forms of contraception that involve the use of hormones have side effects.  The same is true with the birth control patch.  Some of the side effects can include weight gain, spotting in between periods, headaches and nausea.  Other side effects that have been attributed to the use of the birth control patch are difficulty wearing contact lenses and a small rash where the patch was applied.  In any case of side effects if they become severe it’s important to check with your physician.

Although the birth control patch isn’t right for every woman it is an effective and safe form of contraception.  When you do decide to talk to your doctor about birth control ask him or her what their opinion is on the birth control patch and from there you can make an informed decision about what is right for you. 

Random excerpt from other pregnancy articles on this site (click the link to read the full article):

Birth Control info on Yahoo: