Pros And Cons Of Birth Control Patch

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Many different methods and forms of birth control are used drastically around the world. Birth control, is a method of contraception used to prevent unwanted pregnancies. These methods include birth control pills, condoms, IUDs, spermicides, etc… Another one of those methods are the birth control patches. These patches were approved by the FDA in 2001, with the brand name, Ortho Evra. However, “The maker of Ortho Evra has stopped making the birth control patch, based on business decisions.” (U.S.FDA) Because of this, its generic form, Xulane, and other brands, are commonly used today.
How it is Used
In addition, the birth control patch can be easily used. It is to be applied on a specific day of the week, in which the patch will be changed
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Another advantage, would be a visual one. Since the patch sticks onto the skin, it is clear to see whether or not a woman has it on or not. “(If a patch falls off, you know to put another one on. It also tends to be a good reminder to change the patch at the right time.)” (PaloAltoMedicalFoundation) This piece of text shows how the patch being visible is beneficial to women. Now to the advantages, comes disadvantages. The disadvantages seem to cause more controversy, because of how many there are. One of them being, as mentioned earlier, its side effects. Many of these include, risk of blood clots in the legs or lungs, weight gain, etc… These risks are very dangerous and can lead into more serious problems. Also, “Less protection than for birth control pills against ectopic pregnancy, if pregnancy occurs while using the patch ( an ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants somewhere other than the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. Such pregnancies carry risks to the mother and must be terminated properly.)” (PaloAltoMedicalFoundation This is another disadvantage to the birth control patches, that offers less protection towards ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is very dangerous and life threatening. Something controversial about this is whether or not this method of birth control is safe. Because of these disadvantages, some may argue that it is …show more content…
If a woman decides to seek for birth control patches as their form of contraception, they should speak to a doctor and ask for a prescription for it. Even though this method works very well, it does have its disadvantages. One of these disadvantages being as mentioned before, of its many risks and side effects that can be dangerous and/or ultimately lead to death. Not to forget, it advantages as well. One of them, being the fact that it is a highly effective birth control method. An example states, “92 to 99 percent; it is 99 percent effective if used as directed.” (National Women’s Health) As shown, the birth control patches are close to 100% in effectiveness. However, the only 100% effective method of preventing pregnancy is abstinence, and theres no prescription needed for