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We are sorry to hear that you had such a bad reaction to the patch, please be sure to
address that issue with the prescribing clinician.
To answer your question, yes there are non-hormonal contraceptive options available to you.
1. Condoms (when used consistently and perfectly) are estimated to be 97% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Condoms are 86% effective with typical use. Condoms are also very good protection from STIs (although not 100%).
2. The Diaphragm is another device that you may want to consider. It is a rubber barrier worn internally. It
must always be used with spermicidal gel or cream. This combination blocks and kills sperm moving toward the
uterus. You will have to be fitted for a diaphragm, which requires a gyn appointment and buying the diaphragm.
The diaphragm's effectiveness against pregnancy is "fair" but you can back up it up with a condom to increase
efficacy and to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections.
3. An IUD is a (somewhat permanent - left in place for years) device that is inserted in the uterus by a
medical practitioner. It causes sperm immobilization and speed ovum transport to prevent pregnancy. It does
not protect you against STIs and it is not always recommended for women who have not yet had children.
Health Service clinicians can help you decide which option is best for you. It may be that
you had a reaction to the material in the patch and not actually the hormones. Your health care provider can
determine what caused the reaction you experienced. Just for your information: there are lots of different
hormonal delivery systems (vaginal ring, many different hormone combinations in pills, injections, and the
patch).
Stop in the Well-Woman office (119 Reid), to see and discuss your options further. Peer
Educators are here from 7-9pm Sun, Mon, Wed, and Thurs. Well-Woman staff is available Mon-Fri from 1-5pm.
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