What is the patch?
The patch, like other contraceptives that contain both an estrogen and a progestin, is called a combination hormonal contraceptive (CHC). The patch slowly releases hormones through your skin over a period of seven days. You wear it for one week at a time, and then replace it on the same day of the week for three consecutive weeks. The fourth week is "patch-free". You can wear the patch on your buttocks, abdomen, upper outer arm or upper torso (excluding the breasts). The patch releases 35 micrograms of estrogen and 200 micrograms of the progestin hormone norelgestromin.
The patch is administered once-weekly. Some women may find it convenient to include the patch as part of their weekly routine. Incorrect use of any hormonal contraceptive is associated with an increased risk of unintended pregnancy.
How does it work?
Like other combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs), the patch works in two ways:
- By inhibiting the monthly release of an egg by the ovaries.
- By changing the mucus produced by the cervix. This slows the movement of the sperm through the mucus and through the uterus (womb).
Questions about the patch:
Will it fall off?
During clinical trials, less than 2% of patches required replacement due to complete detachment.
Will the patch give me a rash?
Although approximately 20% of patients experienced some form of application site reaction, only about 2% discontinued using the patch for this reason.
Factors to consider about the patch
- When used as directed, the patch provides reliable contraception for a full month
- It may cause skin irritation where the patch is applied
- It may detach from skin (less than 2%)
- Use an extra method of birth control (barrier method) such as condoms or spermicides for the first 7 days when you start the patch.
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Factors to consider about combined hormonal contraceptives
- They are effective and reversible
- Combined hormonal contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Common side effects associated with combined hormonal contraceptives include: headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, and bleeding between periods
Several health advantages other than contraception have been reported for combination hormonal contraceptives:
- a reduction in the incidence of cancer of the endometrium and ovaries
- a reduction in the likelihood of developing benign breast disease
- a reduction in the likelihood of development of functional ovarian cysts
- less menstrual blood loss and more regular cycles, thereby reducing the chance of developing iron-deficiency anemia
- a potential decrease the severity of dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome
- a potential decrease the incidence of acute pelvic inflammatory disease, thereby reducing the incidence of ectopic pregnancy potential beneficial effects on endometriosis
- potential beneficial effects on endometriosis
Inform yourself and talk to your doctor
There are many choices of hormonal contraceptive available. Do your own research and speak with your doctor about the advantages and disadvantages of the different available types of hormonal contraceptive and choose the one that best fits your needs.
For tips on how to get the most out of your doctor’s visit, see Talking to your doctor.
Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious adverse effects on the heart and blood vessels. This risk increases with age and becomes significant in hormonal contraceptive users over 35 years of age. Women who use hormonal contraceptives are strongly advised not to smoke.
