Birth control patch vs pill: Which is right for your body?

What is the birth control patch? 

The birth control patch is a contraceptive adhesive patch that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy [1]. You apply one patch to your skin each week for three consecutive weeks (21 days), then remove it for one week (7 days) before starting a new patch. You can apply the patch to your upper back, upper arm, abdomen, buttocks, or chest (but not your breasts) [1]. 

The patch releases estrogen and progestin (a synthetic form of progesterone), which are absorbed through the skin. Together, they prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation to stop the ovaries from releasing an egg [3]. Additionally, estrogen helps regulate bleeding patterns [4], while progestin is responsible for:

• Thickening cervical mucus to prevent fertilization [3]
• Thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation [5]

How effective is the birth control patch?

Now you know what the patch is, you may be wondering how well it works. The birth control patch is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy with perfect use [6]. This means following all instructions correctly and sticking to a consistent schedule—you're applying a new patch on the same day of the week for three weeks and then removing it on the fourth week as scheduled. 

Here's an example schedule:

Week 1: Apply the birth control patch on Friday morning. 

Week 2: Apply the birth control patch on Friday morning. 

Week 3: Apply the birth control patch on Friday morning. 

Week 4: Remove the birth control patch on Friday morning. You do not wear the patch for the entire week. 

Missing or delaying a patch can increase your chances of getting pregnant. With typical use (which reflects how a method is used in the real world), the patch is 93% effective at preventing pregnancy [6]. Meaning out of 100 women using this method over a year, 7 will get pregnant while using the patch.

Benefits of the birth control patch

The birth control patch offers several advantages that might make it a great choice for you. Here are some key benefits:

• You only need to apply the patch once a week
• It doesn't interfere with sex
• It can make your periods lighter, shorter, and more regular
• It may reduce menstrual cramps, menstrual migraine frequency, unwanted hair growth, and improve acne
• It can reduce the risk of uterine, ovarian, and colon cancers [1] 

Does the birth control patch cause weight gain?

The relationship between the birth control patch and weight gain is unclear. Research has found no evidence linking the patch to weight gain [7, 8]. If you do notice weight gain while using the patch, it's a good idea to consult your healthcare provider for further guidance and support.

What are birth control pills?

Birth control pills are oral contraceptives that contain hormones to prevent pregnancy [2]. They should be taken every day at the same time. There are two main types: combined oral contraceptives (COCs), which contain both estrogen and progestin, and progestin-only pills (POPs), which contain only progestin. 

Combined oral contraceptive birth control pills

COCs, commonly known as "the pill," are taken once a day at the same time. There are various formulations and hormone doses, and your healthcare provider will help determine the one that best suits your individual needs.

Progestin-only birth control pills

Your healthcare provider may recommend POPs, also known as the "minipill," if COCs aren't suitable based on your medical history. POPs are a safe contraceptive option right after childbirth or if you're breastfeeding, since estrogen can decrease milk production at the beginning [9]. Like COCs, POPs are taken once daily, but it's especially important to take them at the same time every day to ensure maximum effectiveness. 

How effective are birth control pills?

Both COCs and POPs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy: 93% effective with typical use and 99% effective with perfect use [6]. Perfect use means taking the pill every day at the same time. If you miss a dose or don't take your birth control regularly, it might not work as well. This can increase your risk of getting pregnant, especially if you're taking POPs. If you miss a POP dose by more than three hours, take it as soon as you remember, and use a backup method of birth control or avoid having vaginal sex for 48 hours [5].

Benefits of birth control pills

Birth control pills offer several advantages and may be the right contraceptive option for you. For example, some benefits of COCs include:

• It can make your periods lighter, shorter, and more regular
• It can reduce the risk of uterine, ovarian, and colon cancers
• It may reduce menstrual cramps, menstrual migraine frequency, unwanted hair growth, and improve acne
• It can help with certain disorders that cause heavy menstrual bleeding and pain, such as endometriosis [11]

Do birth control pills cause weight gain?

Similar to the birth control patch, there is no clear evidence regarding weight gain and birth control pills [7, 8]. Some women report weight gain when they start birth control pills, but most of it is based on personal experience rather than scientific findings. That said, you know your body best. If you experience weight gain while using birth control pills, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

Birth control patch vs. pill: what are the side effects?

Both the birth control patch and pill are considered safe and effective contraceptive methods, but they may cause side effects, especially when you first start using them. It's totally normal to experience mild symptoms during the initial adjustment period. In many cases, these symptoms get better over time and as you keep using them [2]. However, if you don’t notice any improvement after three months, contact your healthcare provider for support. They can help you explore alternative brands, adjust the dose, or prescribe a different method that may be a better fit.

Side effects of the patch

Side effects can vary from person to person, and some may experience only mild symptoms. Common side effects of the birth control patch include [12]: 

• Skin irritation at the patch site
• Upset stomach 
• Mood swings 
• Sore or tender breasts
• Headache
• Weight gain
• High blood pressure
• Breakthrough bleeding

Side effects of the pill

Side effects can vary depending on whether you're taking a combined pill (with both estrogen and progestin) or a progestin-only pill [12].

Side effects of COCs

• Headache
• Abdominal cramps or pain
• Sore and tender breasts
• Mood swings
• High blood pressure
• Breakthrough bleeding
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Decreased libido

Side effects of POPs

• Unscheduled, irregular bleeding or spotting
• Sore and tender breasts
• Headache
• Nausea

Birth control patch vs. pill: What are the potential complications?

While the birth control patch and pill are generally considered safe, there are some potential risks and complications to be aware of. For example, if you smoke and are over the age of 35, you have a higher risk of serious complications with COC or the patch [11]. Although these risks are relatively rare, it's important to stay informed when selecting a contraceptive. Be sure to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, so you can choose a method that's safe for you.

Risks of COCs

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Heart attack
• Stroke 
• Breast cancer
• Cervical cancer  [11]

Risks of POPs

• Ovarian cysts [13]

Risks of the birth control patch

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Stroke
• Heart attack [10]

Birth control patch vs. pill: What's the best contraceptive for you?

Before starting any type of contraceptive, it's important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider. They can help you choose the best method based on your medical history and family planning goals. To help you decide whether the birth control patch or the pill is right for you, consider the following factors [12]:

• If and when you want to get pregnant
• Potential side effects
• How often you have sex
• Medical history 
• Your daily schedule and routine
• Convenience 
• Ease of use 
• Whether you are breastfeeding
• Your age
• Lifestyle habits, such as smoking

Ultimately, choosing between the birth control patch and the pill is a personal decision. It depends on what fits best with your lifestyle, health and medical needs, as well as your plans for  pregnancy. Both methods are highly effective when used correctly, but factors like side effects, ease of use, and personal preference will influence your decision.

Contraceptive alternatives to consider

If the birth control patch or pill doesn't seem like the right fit for you, there are several other options worth exploring.

Non-hormonal birth control

If you prefer a hormone-free method, consider a natural family planning method, such as tracking your ovulation using basal body temperature. The Natural Cycles  app is a temperature-based app that pairs with a wearable device or Bluetooth thermometer. The app will analyze your unique cycle data to identify your fertile window, so you know which days to use protection to prevent pregnancy.. With perfect use, Natural Cycles is 93% effective with typical use and 98% effective with perfect use. 

Birth control implant

The birth control implant is a small, thin plastic rod that is inserted under the skin of your upper arm by a healthcare provider. It continuously releases progestin to prevent pregnancy and can last for three to four years. The implant is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy for both typical and perfect use [6].

Vaginal ring

The vaginal ring is a thin, flexible ring that you insert into the vagina. It continuously releases hormones for three weeks, and you remove it during the fourth week. After the break week, you insert a new ring. The vaginal ring releases both estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy. When used correctly all the time, it is 93% effect with typical use and 99% effective at preventing pregnancy [6].

Intrauterine device (IUD)

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device that your healthcare provider inserts into your uterus. There are two types: hormonal IUDs and copper IUDs. The hormonal IUD releases progestin and can stay inside your uterus for 3 to 8 years (depending on the brand). The copper IUD releases copper into the uterus, which interferes with the sperm's ability to move. It's approved for up to 10 years of use. Both types of IUDs are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy [6].

Condom 

A condom is a thin sheath made of latex or polyurethane that covers the penis during sex to collect sperm and prevent it from entering the woman's body. To effectively prevent pregnancy, your partner must wear the condom every time you have sex. Condoms are widely available at drug stores, pharmacies, and grocery stores. With perfect use, condoms are 87% effective with typical use and 98% effective at preventing pregnancy [6].

Say goodbye to side effects with Natural Cycles

We hope you’ve learned more about the birth control patch vs pill. If you’re thinking about switching birth control methods, but want to avoid negative hormonal side effects, why not consider Natural Cycles? The first FDA Cleared birth control. Natural Cycles works with your body to find your fertile days so you can plan or prevent pregnancy naturally. Find out if it could work for you today!