Can anyone advise me on contraceptive patches please. i am running out of options for contraception.

[jenkaren]

I have tried coil which failed with in 1 hour, Implant which gave me headached, Depro injections also gave me headached, mini pill did not suit me. I am not confident to take the normal pill again incase i forget to take it (busy working mum!!). As a couple i feel we are too young for sterelisation or vasectomy. I also have a latex allergy so condoms and cap are out. Any help would be appreciated!!!

[drpjaya]

Hello,

The advantage with patch is that, you can use them once a week for 3 weeks in a row and take a break for a week. You will have bleeding when you are off from patch for a week and use the patch again for next 3 weeks changing the patch once every week. It can be applied anywhere on the body away from breast area and they have good adhesive that they stick very well to the skin. Unlikely to come off when you are in the shower. They are same as normal combined pills which you take once every day for 3 weeks and take a break for a week. Both combined pills and patches contains two types of hormones estrogens and progestogens unlike mini pills which contain only progestogens. The estrogens in these pills and patches increase the risk of blood clots and blood pressure problems. Combined pills and patches are not suitable for some women and GP or FP clinics will make this assessment when you visit them requesting for combined pills or patches. To mention few, they are not suitable someone with blood pressure problems, who has had blood clots in the past or someone in the immediate family has had blood clots and someone who is excessively overweight. Recently vaginal rings are available in the UK belong to the same category of patch and combined pills. These rings are placed inside the vagina for 3 weeks and take a break for a week.

You mentioned that coil failed with in an hour which I am not able to understand what you exactly meant by that. The advantages of the coil are that they are hormone free and works for nearly ten years and effectiveness is as good as sterelisation procedure.

Hope this helps,

[pragmaticman]

Hello jenkaren,

I agree that it can sometimes be difficult to find a method of contraception that you find ok to tolerate/use. You might want to call the FPA helpline as there you will be able to talk you through all 15 (currently available) options and hopefully be able to point you in the right direction. The number is 0845 122 8690 or you can make confidential web enquiry if you prefer fpa.org.uk/helpandadvice/as...

Best wishes,

[hivsyphilis]

I would not give up hope.okay the coil may have fallen out,why not go to a different venue and try again for an intrauterine device (iud) maybe the person was not so experienced at fitting,or try another brand of pill there are many brands .the patches are good to and wil be less easy to forget.can your husband remind you to change it or take the pill after you brushed your teeth.it depends on how important it is to you to not become pregnant.Have you considered seeing a natural family planning expert,no hormones,no chemicals, just calenders/temperature and mucus readings.