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There are now many contraceptives for women, from daily pills to long-acting devices such as intrauterine devices (IUDs). The birth control patch sits somewhere in between.
How does the patch actually work? Is it as effective as the pill? And who is it suitable for? Read on for the answers.
What Is the Birth Control Patch?
The birth control patch is a small, thin adhesive that releases hormones through the skin and into your bloodstream.
How It Prevents Pregnancy
The patch typically contains two hormones: oestrogen and progestin. They work together to reduce the chance of pregnancy in several ways.
First, they prevent ovulation. This means the ovary does not release an egg during the menstrual cycle.
Second, the hormones thicken the cervical mucus. This mucus sits at the entrance of the uterus and becomes thicker when exposed to progestin, making it more difficult for sperm to travel through.
Finally, the lining of the uterus becomes thinner. If fertilisation were to occur, this thinner lining makes it less likely for a fertilised egg to implant.
How to Use the Patch Correctly
The birth control patch is meant to be placed on your skin – be it the upper arm, abdomen, buttock, or back. Before doing so, make sure the area is clean, dry, and free from lotions or oils so it won’t fall off during the day.
You’ll also need to replace the patch once a week for three consecutive weeks, followed by a patch-free week, during which a menstrual-like bleed may occur.
If it becomes loose, falls off, or you forget to replace it, you may need additional contraception to prevent pregnancy.
How the Patch Differs From Pills, Injections and IUDs
The birth control patch is one of several hormonal contraceptive options available in Singapore. Other methods work in similar ways but differ in how they are used and how often they need to be managed.
- Birth control pills are typically taken every day at around the same time.
- Contraceptive injections typically contain only progestin and are administered by a doctor every few months.
- IUDs are small devices inserted into the uterus and can prevent pregnancy for several years. Some release hormones, while others use copper and contain no hormones at all.
Which type of contraceptive is right for you? Book a consultation at Peak Medical Clinic to find out.
Are You a Candidate for the Birth Control Patch?
The birth control patch may be worth considering if you:
- want a hormonal contraceptive
- prefer a weekly routine rather than remembering to take a pill every day
- are not keen on oral medication
- want a method that can be started or stopped without a medical procedure
Medical Conditions That May Make It Unsuitable
However, you may not be a good candidate for the patch if you:
- have a history of blood clots, stroke, or certain heart conditions
- experience migraine with visual disturbances
- have uncontrolled high blood pressure
- have certain liver conditions
- are over 35 and smoke regularly
Advantages Compared to Daily Pills
Some people may find it easier to replace the patch every week than take the pill every day. This may also help maintain contraceptive effectiveness, since missing a pill or taking it at different times each day can reduce how well the pill works.
Because the hormones are absorbed through the skin, the patch also avoids the need to swallow medication daily. This may be helpful if you prefer not to take tablets or sometimes have difficulty remembering them.
However, convenience alone should not determine your choice of contraception. The right method will still depend on your health history, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Like other hormonal contraceptives, the birth control patch may cause mild side effects, such as:
- breast tenderness
- mild headaches
- nausea
- skin irritation where the patch is applied
- light spotting between menstrual periods
Most of these symptoms are temporary and tend to settle after the first few cycles.
However, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible if you experience severe headaches, chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, or swelling in one leg. These symptoms are uncommon and may signal a serious complication.
What Happens During a Consultation?
At Peak Medical Clinic, your doctor will review your medical history before prescribing the birth control patch in Singapore. This may include questions about your:
- Menstrual cycle, past contraceptive use, and any existing medical conditions.
- Lifestyle, like whether you smoke, are taking any medications or planning for a child.
If you are assessed to be suitable, your doctor will explain how the patch works, how to use it correctly, and what to expect in the first few months.
You may also ask about its effectiveness, potential side effects, and how the patch compares with other contraceptive options.
How Much Does the Birth Control PatchCost in Singapore?
The cost of the birth control patch in Singapore can vary depending on the clinic you visit, the brand prescribed, and whether consultation fees are included. In general, you can expect it to cost around $36 to $60 per month.
Because the patch is replaced weekly, you will typically use three patches per month, followed by a patch-free week.
If you’re using the patch for the first time, your doctor may prescribe a shorter initial supply and review how you respond to it before providing a longer prescription. This helps ensure the method works for you and that you’re comfortable with the routine.
When Another Option May Be Better
The birth control patch can be a convenient method for many people, but not all.
If You Cannot Use Oestrogen
In such cases, you may consider progestin-only or non-hormonal methods.
If you’re unable to use contraceptives that contain oestrogen, your doctor may suggest progestin-only methods instead. These include options such as the contraceptive injection, certain pills, or hormonal IUDs.
If You Prefer Long-Term Contraception
If you prefer not to think about contraception every week, long-acting methods may suit you better. There are IUDs as well as contraceptive implants.
These methods generally require less frequent maintenance after insertion.
If You Want a Non-Hormonal Method
If you want to avoid hormonal contraception altogether, a copper IUD may be considered. Unlike hormonal contraceptives, it prevents pregnancy without releasing hormones into the body.
Condoms are another option. They can be used on their own or together with another form of contraception.
Should You Get the Birth Control Patchin Singapore? Consult a Professional First
Family planning looks different for everyone. If you would like to explore your contraception options, a consultation at Peak Medical Clinic can help you decide what works best for you. Book an appointment today.