1- What is the contraceptive patch and how is it used
The contraceptive patch is used as a type of hormonal contraceptive to prevent ovulation in a woman, but how is it used
The patch is a little sticky like a nicotine patch, and it delivers hormones into your body through your skin
It contains the same hormone as the combined oral contraceptive pill, and works the same way
It increases the thickness of the cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg
It makes the lining of the uterus thinner, making it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant
How to use the sticker
You can use the contraceptive patch on most areas of the body as long as the skin is clean and there is not much hair on it
You apply a new patch once a week (every seven days) for three weeks, and then stop using the patch for seven days
Menstruation may occur during the patch-free week, and may not always occur
After the seven-day period is over, you apply a new patch and start another four-week cycle
The patch starts working right away, which means that if you start using the patch on the first day of your period, you can have sex safely
If you start using the patch in the first five days of your period you will be protected, and you will not need to use additional contraception
If you start using it on any other day, you will need additional contraception for the first seven days
Advantages of the contraceptive patch
The patch is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly
Each patch lasts for one week, you change the patch every week for three weeks, and then you stay for a week without the patch
You don’t need to think about it every day unlike the oral contraceptive pill
You can use the patch in the shower, in the pool, and while exercising
If your period is heavy or painful, a patch can help
The patch may protect against ovarian cancer, uterine cancer and colon cancer
Easy to use and does not interrupt sex
The contraceptive hormones won’t need to be absorbed by the stomach, so they still work even if you have diarrhea or vomiting
Cons of using it
The patch can increase blood pressure, and some women can experience temporary side effects, such as headaches
Some women can develop a blood clot when using the patch, but this rarely happens
The patch may not be suitable for smokers who are (35) years old or more, or who weigh (90) kg or more
The patch does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases
May cause skin irritation or itching
Some women may experience mild, temporary side effects when they first start using it. Such as: (headache, nausea, vomiting, breast pain, mood changes), and these symptoms usually go away after a few months
Some medicines can reduce the effectiveness of the patch, so you may need to use an additional method of contraception while taking the medicine and for 28 days afterwards
The contraceptive patch is not suitable for everyone
If you are considering using it, your doctor or nurse will ask you about your health and family medical history; To make sure the patch is right for you
Do not use the patch if
pregnant or think you may be pregnant
If you are breast-feeding a baby less than six weeks old
You are a smoker and you are (35) years or older
You are 35 years or older and you quit smoking less than a year ago
If you are too fat
if you are taking certain medicines; For example: (antibiotics, St. John’s wort, or medicines used to treat epilepsy, tuberculosis or HIV)
Also, you cannot use the patch if you have any of the following conditions
Thrombosis (thrombosis) in a vein or artery
A heart problem or disease that affects your circulation (including blood pressure)
Migraine with aura (warning signs)
breast cancer
Liver or gallbladder disease
diabetes
Use of male and female condoms to prevent pregnancy
Sometimes parents want to use temporary contraceptive methods without much risk, so the best option is to use a condom or a female condom
In general, the role of the male or female condom is to prevent the man’s blister from meeting the woman’s egg, without stopping the egg production process, so it is one of the most common contraceptives, but what is the difference between them and the pros and cons of using them
female condom
The female condom is made of thin plastic and is placed inside the vagina to prevent sperm from entering the uterus
Helps prevent sexually transmitted diseases
It must be placed before the start of intercourse, as pregnancy can occur before ejaculation, by entering some sperm
The condom should be kept in a cool room, away from any sharp objects or rough surfaces that may puncture the condom
One time use only
Positives
Contraceptive rate (95%), when used correctly
Protection from sexually transmitted diseases
It has no harm or side effects in general
The condom is removed immediately after intercourse
The condom does not require prior preparation, but it can be placed before sexual intercourse for a period of up to (8) hours
Negatives
Not available in abundance such as condoms
The condom may rupture when used incorrectly
condoms
The effectiveness is greater than (98%)
It should be kept in places that are not too hot or cold, and away from sharp and rough surfaces
products with an oily consistency; (Moisturizer, lotion and Vaseline) make latex condoms less effective
The condom must be placed before intercourse, as pregnancy can occur before ejaculation, by entering some sperm
One time use only
Positives
It can be relied upon as an effective method when used correctly and consistently
You only need to use them when having sex without prior arrangement
There are no medical side effects of using condoms
Prevention of sexually transmitted diseases
It’s easy to get hold of, and comes in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and scents
Negatives
Some couples find that using condoms interrupts sex. To avoid this: try to see it as part of the relationship
Condoms are very strong but may split or rip if not used properly
Some people may be allergic to rubber, plastic, or spermicides. You can get condoms, which are less likely to cause an allergy
Finally
there are many methods of contraception, you should always make sure to use the most appropriate method, whether it is the contraceptive pill, IUD, vaginal ring or male and female condoms
Do not hesitate to consult a specialist doctor, who can suggest the most appropriate method for your health and the health of your partner
