Using the ortho evra patch?!
Question: Just started using this, is it okay if the edges does peel a little bit, i find that it doesnt stick along the edges of the patch... ?
also, i've been hearing a lot of risk factors with the patch... patch vs. pill.. which is better health wise because the patch is much more convient!
Answers: Just started using this, is it okay if the edges does peel a little bit, i find that it doesnt stick along the edges of the patch... ?
also, i've been hearing a lot of risk factors with the patch... patch vs. pill.. which is better health wise because the patch is much more convient!
I tried using the patch for a while, and had the same problem of the edges not sticking. I would end up with fuzz all along the edges, the way you would with an old band-aid. It was really annoying. I also found that I didn't get the effect I did with the pill in helping my cramps. I was terrible about taking the pill on time, so I switched to the NuvaRing, and I haven't gone back. I've been using the NuvaRing for 3 years now, and it's great. You insert the ring vaginally and three weeks later take it out, leave it out for a week, then put the next in. It's even more convenient than the patch, and no one can tell you're using it, whereas the patch you can see on your skin.
I began using the patch when it was fairly new on the market, and I personally hated it. For the 3 months I was on it, I had a constant discharge, and also the glue from the patch would leave marks on my body, no matter how hard I scrubbed. I later switched to the pill, and I like it a lot more because the continuous discharge was never an issue for me, even when I first started using it. As far as health reasons, I guess with any newer drug you just have to take your chances, but convenience wise I just prefer the pill. Just don't use the needle, I've heard horror stories about that one! Good luck, hope your experience is better than mine was!!!
If the patch edges are lifting up press firmly for 10 to 15 seconds. If it will not stick well you may need to replace the patch. When you apply it, firmly press on the patch with the palm of your hand for 10 seconds, making sure the edges stick well. Run your fingers around the edge of Ortho Evra to make sure it is sticking properly.
The patch is easier to deal with, but it releases higher levels of hormones than the pill does: "You will be exposed to about 60% more estrogen if you use ORTHO EVRA than if you use a typical birth control pill containing 35 micrograms of estrogen. In general, increased estrogen exposure may increase the risk of side effects. The risk of venous thromboembolic disease (blood clots in the legs and/or the lungs) may be increased with ORTHO EVRA compared with that of a birth control pill containing norgestimate and 35 micrograms of estrogen. One study found a doubling of this risk and another study found no increased risk." -- http://www.orthoevra.com/html/pevr/safet...
Have you heard of the NuvaRing? You put a new one in once a month, and it emits lower doses of hormones than the pill or the patch: http://www.nuvaring.com