What it is?
The contraceptive patch, also called Evra. It is a small beige patch applied to the skin like a sticky plaster which protects against pregnancy. It contains the same hormones as the pill, oestrogen and progestogen.
The patch can be worn discreetly on any of the following areas:
- Abdomen
- Buttocks
- Upper arm
- Upper torso
The patch should not be applied to:
- Breast area
- Broken or irritated skin
How it works
The patch releases two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen into the bloodstream through the skin. Like the combined pill, it stops the ovaries from releasing an egg for fertilisation every month.
It also thickens the mucus around the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to get into the uterus.
The patch can provide protection from pregnancy immediately. It should:
- Applied on the first day of your period
- Be worn continuously for seven days
- Be changed on the eighth day for a new patch
- Be changed every week for three weeks
After three weeks, you will not wear a patch for seven days. During the patch-free week you may bleed like a normal period. After seven patch-free days a new one is applied and the four-week cycle begins again.
Advantages
- Does not interrupt sex
- Can be worn while swimming, having a bath or exercising
- Women do not have to remember to take a pill
- You only need to remember to replace the patch once a week
- Patch is not affected if you vomit or have diarrhoea
Disadvantages
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Can cause headaches and skin problems
- Breakthrough bleeding (unexpected bleeding while using the patch) and spotting may occur
- Contains the same hormones as the combined pill, which in a small number of women can cause serious side effects such as blood clots and breast cancer
How effective is it?
The patch is 99% effective when used correctly.
What makes it less effective?
- Forgetting to change the patch after seven days
- Not wearing the patch on the first day of a period
- If the patch falls off and is not re-applied, or if a new one is not put on immediately
- Use of some prescription medicines
