There are two new methods of birth control now available...the "patch" and the "ring."  Following is some information on each.

The "patch" releases the hormones progestin and estrogen through the skin into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy.  An alternative to the birth control pills, the thin, beige, one-and-three-quarter-inch square clings to your skin like a bandaid.  The patch should be applied to the lower abdomen, buttocks or upper torso, exluding the breasts.  It is worn for a week at a time and is changed on the same day of the week for three consecutive weeks.  The fourth week is "patch-free," when the user should experience her period.

The "patch" is 99 percent effective when used correctly...comparable to the birth control pill.

Pros: 

1. Extremely effective in preventing pregnancy.
2. Much easier for many women to use the patch rather than the pill--it's more convenient to change a patch once a week than take a pill every day.
3. The patch remains effective when a woman changes it at any time on her weekly "patch change day."
4. The patch can be work on different parts of the body and remains attached and effective while bathing, swimming, exercising or in humid conditions.  It is thin enough to be worn discreetly beneath clothing.

Cons:

1. The "patch" does not provide protection from sexually transmitted diseases.
2. It contains hormones similar to those found in birth control pills, causing many of the same side effects, such as breast discomfort, headache, moodiness and nausea.  Additional side effects can include upper respiratory infection, menstrual cramps and abdominal pain.
3. The "patch" seems to be less effective on women weighing over 198 pounds.
4. As with all hormonal methods of birth control, women using the "patch" are strongly advised not to smoke, as doing so can increase the risk of severe cardiovascular effects.
5. The "patch" is not recommended for women who have blood clots, certain cancers, a history of heart attack or stroke, and those who are or may be pregnant.

The "patch" is available by prescription--just speak with your physician if you are interested.  The cost is similar to that of the birth control pills - approximately $30 - $35 per month.

The "ring" is a flexible, transparent, colorless vaginal ring measuring two inches in diameter that releases a continuous low dose of estrogen and progestin.  The ring is inserted into the vagina for three weeks and is then removed for one week while the woman has her period.  A new ring is used with each cycle.  It is inserted and removed by pressing the sides together between the thumb and index finger and gently pushing it in or pulling it out of the vagina.  Use begins on or before the fifth day of a woman's period.

The "ring" is 98-99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy as long as it is properly used.

Pros:

1. Dosage schedule is easy to follow, as the ring only needs to be changed once a month (compared to birth control pills which must be taken every day).
2. It is easily inserted and removed.
3. As the doses of hormones are low and steady, little spotting or irregular bleeding occcurs, and ovulation returns quickly after a woman stops using the ring.
4. Many users report less moodiness.

Cons:

1. Does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
2. Reported side effect include vaginal infections and irritation, discharge, headache, weight gain, and nausea similar to those associated with the use of birth control pills.
3. As with other hormonal contraceptives, women who use the ring are strongly advised not to smoke, as doing so can increase the risk of severe cardiovascular side effects.
4. The "ring" is not recommended for women who are or may be pregnant, have blood clots, severe hypertension, certain cancers or a history of heart attack or stroke.

The ring is now available and should cost about the same as other monthly contraceptives.  If you are interested, please contact your physician.