Is the Birth Control Patch Dangerous?

Reader Question: I heard that the birth control patch might be taken off the market. Should I stop using it?

The birth control patch, Ortho Evra, is still available right now, but a public interest group (Public Citizen) recently asked the FDA to ban it. That's because hormone levels in women who use the patch are about 60 percent higher than they are in women who use oral birth control pills—and higher hormone levels can translate to increased risk for blood clots.

Before you panic, consider this: While oral birth control pills don't present as high a risk for blood clots as the patch, they do still increase the risk of clotting. Plus, think realistically about whether you would really remember to take the pill every day if you switched to this method. Many women don't—and that can lead to pregnancy, which also increases the risk of blood clots due to hormonal changes. Just remember, whether you choose the pill or the patch, don't smoke! Smoking definitely increases the risk of blood clots for women who use any kind of hormonal contraceptives.



Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
More From Lifestyle