Teens & the Patch

If you have trouble remembering to take the birth control pill every day, you might prefer the patch (Ortho Evra). It’s a thin plastic patch that’s applied to the skin once a week for three weeks, followed by one patch-free week. The patch contains the same hormones as the pill, so researchers believe it has the same health benefits, including less acne, fewer menstrual cramps, and more regular periods. It’s up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy — but doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections. To get a prescription for the patch, you need to visit a health care provider.

Learn More