Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Exam Prep 2025 – Complete Practice Resource

The patch is a form of hormonal contraceptive that is applied to the skin and releases hormones into the bloodstream to prevent ovulation. Among its potential disadvantages, causing site reactions stands out as a notable concern. Site reactions can manifest as redness, irritation, or allergic reactions at the area where the patch is applied, which may deter users from continuing its use.

Other choices do not accurately reflect significant disadvantages of the patch. For instance, increasing cervical mucus is a physiological response to hormonal contraceptives, which can actually aid in preventing sperm from reaching an egg; therefore, it is not considered a disadvantage. The patch can be used by women over the age of 35 as long as they do not smoke or have certain medical conditions, which means that age alone is not a drawback. Lastly, the effectiveness of the patch is not compromised by the use of antibiotics, with most antibiotic treatments not significantly affecting its hormonal action, further indicating that this is not a disadvantage of using the patch.

Overall, the potential for site reactions is a pragmatic consideration that can affect patient compliance and comfort when using this method of contraception.