Twirla

Twirla is a birth control patch that contains a different mix of hormones than the original birth control patch, Xulane. Just like there are many birth control pill formulas that contain different mixes of hormones, now there's a second patch option. For some people, the patch is a great option since it does not need to be taken every day like a pill to be effective — you simply change your patch every week for three weeks, then have a patch-free week at the end of the month when you have a period.

Twirla contains a different type of progestin than Xulane, and since everyone responds differently to hormones, some people may feel better with the change of hormone combination.

Twirla is beige and round and a little larger than Xulane, which is square and peach-toned patch.

For more information about how Twirla compares with Xulane, click here.

Patches need to be changed weekly, instead of taken daily like a birth control pill. This is a huge benefit for anybody who struggles to remember to take a daily pill. Birth control is only effective if the patient uses it correctly, and consistency is key!

It is not recommended to use any patch continuously to skip periods beyond 3 periods in a row. The reason is that patches contain one of the highest doses of estrogen available, and after 3 months of continuous use the level of estrogen in your body increases to a point that adverse effects like blood clots and stroke become more likely.

Patches are great options for people with changing schedules since they only need to be changed once per week. Other good non-daily options are the ring, shot, arm implant, and IUDs.

The side effects of the patch are the same as those of other combined hormone option (those with include both estrogen and progestin). Common side effects include irregular bleeding, nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and bloating. These typically resolve by the third month of use. One side effect specific to the patch is that the adhesive may cause irritation, redness, or a rash. Uncommon but severe side effects include blood clots that could cause a heart attack or stroke.

2% of Twirla users stopped using the patch due to weight gain, which is similar to other forms of hormonal birth control. The Depo Provera shot is the only birth control method proven to cause weight gain. Most people do not gain weight on the pill, patch, or ring. When they do it is usually no more than five pounds and may be due to other causes. Some people also lose weight when using these methods. Ultimately, you may require some trial and error in finding the right birth control method for you, but we wouldn't expect your new birth control to cause weight gain for you.

Yes, for those with commercial insurance Twirla offers a copay card to reduce the cost of the patch to as little as $25 per month. Click here to activate a Twirla copay card.

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