- Breast Discomfort: Approximately 22% of women had breast discomfort that was commonly reported as mild to moderate. For most women this decreased with each cycle. After two months on the birth control patch these symptoms generally went away.
- Breakthrough Bleeding and Spotting: These are common symptoms of all hormonal birth control methods. It was reported in 18% of women in the first cycle, 12% on the third cycle, and 8% in cycle six and thirteen. Irregular bleeding is temporary and not s sign of any serious problems.
- No Period: Very few women, .1%, in the trials did not have their period. This is a condition known as amenorrhea. Not having a period could also be a sign of pregnancy.
- Skin Irritation: Skin irritation at the patch site is also a common side effect of using Ortho Evra. Reaction at the application site caused 1.9% of women to stop using Ortho Evra.
- Nausea: It is a possibility to suffer from nausea or vomiting in the first few weeks, if it continues after that period of time it is recommended to switch to a different birth control method.
- Weight Gain: Weight gain is also a side effect of using the birth control patch.
- Decreased Sex Drive: Some women have reported a decrease in their sex drive since using Ortho Evra.
- Hair Loss: Hormones and birth control medications can cause hair loss in women who are genetically prone.
- Yeast Infections: Some women have reported persistent yeast infections while using the birth control patch.
- Contact Lens Problems: Problems with vision and contact lenses has been reported with users of Ortho Evra.
- Depression: Hormonal birth control has been documented in causing a vitamin B6 deficiency, which can lead to depression. Taking a vitamin B6 supplement or a multivitamin is recommended.
When menopause symptoms start setting in, it may be 2-3 years to the menopause in actual. There is no definite age for menopause but can occur any time after 45 years of age. Also, prior to menopause, there is a phase called perimenopause that marks the beginning of the symptoms. One after wishes if male menopause was this complicated too.
