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Twirla birth control patch prescription available online

Twirla birth control patch (levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol) is a highly effective option for birth control. Get a same-day prescription or refill of Twirla from a caring, board-certified doctor online.*

Weekly birth control patch Functions by blocking ovulation Used to prevent pregnancy
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
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About Twirla birth control patch

Twirla (levonorgestrel ethinyl estradiol) is a type of hormonal birth control that contains levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol. Unlike birth control pills, which are taken daily, Twirla is a birth control patch that you only need to apply once a week.

The Twirla patch is used to prevent pregnancy. Twirla is available only by prescription. It may be available in a generic formulation as levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol as well as under different brand names. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.

If you're prescribed Twirla, be sure to complete the full course of the transdermal patch unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the Twirla patch may not work as effectively to prevent pregnancy. 

Twirla birth control patch uses

Twirla is FDA-approved for use as a prescription contraceptive patch. It may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your doctor may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your health care provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.

Pregnancy prevention (birth control)

Twirla is FDA-approved to prevent pregnancy in women. Similar to other forms of hormonal birth control, Twirla functions by blocking ovulation. Twirla may cause some people to stop having regular menstrual periods.

Twirla birth control: side effects to look out for

The side effects associated with taking Twirla are typically mild. Most Twirla side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort. Twirla has some common side effects. The side effects of Twirla may include:

  • Nausea and upset stomach

  • Weight gain

  • Menstrual cramps

  • Skin reactions at the patch site


Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

  • Signs of a blood clot (blurred vision, chest pain, shortness of blood)

  • High blood pressure

  • Severe migraine headaches


You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of Twirla is not recommended in children before menarche.

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How to use the Twirla control patch

Your doctor will provide you with instructions on how to take your Twirla prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor if you have any questions.

Twirla can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. Apply a new birth control patch as soon as you remember and start a new cycle on that day. You should go three weeks while wearing a weekly patch and one week off the patch.

Make sure to use back-up birth control, such as condoms, during the first week of your new cycle. Like other forms of hormonal birth control, the birth control patch does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or infections.

What to avoid while taking Twirla

Twirla has 436 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs. 

Possible drug interactions with the Twirla birth control patch include:

  • St. John's Wort

  • Acetaminophen

  • Antibiotic or antifungal medicines

  • Cholesterol medication

  • Seizure medicine


Ask your doctor for medical advice about side effects before drinking alcohol. Drinking alcohol may lead to an increased risk of liver damage.

Medication alternatives to Twirla

If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another birth control patch or other hormonal contraceptives in another drug class.

Twirla birth control FAQs

How much does Twirla cost?

Depending on your pharmacy, the Twirla patch costs around $211 for three films without insurance. Fortunately, most health insurance plans offer free or low-cost birth control. Our prescription discount card also helps members save up to 80% on prescriptions.

How long does it take for Twirla to be effective?

The Twirla patch (levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol transdermal system) starts working within seven days to prevent pregnancy. Make sure to use back-up birth control for the first week of your new patch cycle.

Does the Twirla patch make you gain weight?

Yes, weight gain is a possible side effect of Twirla.

Where is the best place to put a Twirla patch?

You should apply the Twirla patch to your lower abdomen, buttock, or upper torso (excluding the breasts). Twirla should be applied to clean skin, and it should lay flat and smooth without any wrinkles or folds.

Can I skip my period with the Twirla patch?

Yes, you can skip your period with the Twirla patch. Instead of going patch-free for a week, just apply a new patch every single week with no breaks. Talk to your doctor before skipping your period with the patch.

How can I refill my Twirla prescription?

To refill your Twirla prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After reviewing your medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.

Who should not use Twirla?

To make sure Twirla birth control is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • High blood pressure, heart disease, or a history of blood clots

  • Migraine with auras

  • Diabetes or gallbladder disease

  • A history of hormone-related cancer, such as breast cancer

  • If you're planning for a major surgery

  • Liver disease or liver tumors

If you have underlying risk factors for cardiovascular disease, you may require regular laboratory and medical tests to make sure hormonal birth control is safe for you.

Women who are 35 years or older and who smoke should not use hormonal birth control to prevent pregnancy. Ask your doctor for medical advice about non-hormonal birth control options.

What happens if I miss a dose of Twirla?

If you forget to change your patch during your three-week wearing time, apply a new patch if it's been 48 hours since your scheduled patch change. Otherwise, apply a new patch and start a new cycle on that day.

If you miss applying your patch for more than a week, replace it with a new one and conduct weekly pregnancy tests for a month. While the medication itself isn't particularly harmful during pregnancy, non-compliance could lead to potential pregnancy risks for women using it.

What happens if I take too much Twirla?

If you've taken too much Twirla, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center.

3 simple steps to request your Twirla prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a Twirla prescription request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Twirla prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your Twirla prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

How pricing works

To get a new or refill on your Twirla prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

We accept these insurance plans and many more:


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Paying without insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.