Switching from Depo-Provera to Ortho-Evra: What You Need to Know

Question
I am on Depo, but instead of getting my next shot I'd like switching to the birth control patch.  Do I have to finish the Depo course before changing?  Would I need another pap before I could change?  Is this something a nurse would be able to help with or do I need to see my doctor about this?

Answer
Hi Carla,

I'm not sure how your health provider would work about this. I'm not a doctor myself. When is the last time you had the shot? Have you had any side effects from this or why are you changing? I'm a little concerned about the patch because I have seen and heard stories about women who have side effects and sometimes very serious from the patch because of hormones. I would suggest you do a thorough search for info about the patch before you decide. I think the yearly pap is good enough but as I said, I would consult your doctor about this.
Good luck and let me know what happens. My personal email address is DWooley97@yahoo.com and hope to talk to you soon. Put ALLEXPERTS in the subject line of the email.

Sincerely,
Diane W.