The contraceptive patch
The contraceptive patch is a sticky patch, a bit like a nicotine patch, measuring 5x5cm. It delivers hormones into your body through your skin. In the UK the patch's brand name is Evra.
It contains the same hormones as the combined pill, and it works in the same way. This means that it prevents ovulation (the release of an egg); it thickens cervical mucus, which makes it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix; and it thins the womb lining, making it less likely that a fertilised egg will implant there.
It contains the same hormones as the combined pill, and it works in the same way. This means that it prevents ovulation (the release of an egg); it thickens cervical mucus, which makes it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix; and it thins the womb lining, making it less likely that a fertilised egg will implant there.
At a glance: facts about the patch
- When used correctly, the patch is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
- Each patch lasts for one week. You change the patch every week for three weeks, then have a week off without a patch.
- You don't need to think about it every day, and it's still effective if you vomit or have diarrhoea.
- You can wear the patch in the bath, in the swimming pool and while playing sports.
- If you have heavy periods or painful periods the patch can help.
- The patch can increase blood pressure, and some women get temporary side effects, such as headaches.
- Some women develop a blood clot when using the patch but this is rare.
- The patch may protect against ovarian cancer, womb cancer and colon cancer.
- The patch may not be suitable for women who smoke and who are 35 or over, or who weigh 90kg (14 stone) or more.
- The patch does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so using a condom as well will help to protect you against STIs.
Advantages and disadvantages of the patchIf it is used properly, the contraceptive patch is more than 99% effective in stopping you from getting pregnant. This means that if 100 women use the patch according to the instructions, fewer than one will get pregnant in a year.
Other advantages of the patch are:
Some women may find that the contraceptive patch has some disadvantages and may wish to use a different form of contraception.
Some potential disadvantages of the patch are:
Other advantages of the patch are:
- it is very easy to use and does not interrupt sex
- unlike the combined oral contraceptive pill, you do not have to think about it every day – you only have to remember to change the patch once a week
- the hormones from the contraceptive patch do not need to be absorbed by the stomach, so it is just as effective even if you vomit or have diarrhoea
- like the pill, it tends to make your periods more regular, lighter and less painful
- it can help with premenstrual symptoms
- it may reduce the risk of cancer of the ovaries, womb and bowel
- it may reduce the risk of fibroids, ovarian cysts and non-cancerous breast disease
Some women may find that the contraceptive patch has some disadvantages and may wish to use a different form of contraception.
Some potential disadvantages of the patch are:
- It may be visible.
- It can cause skin irritation, itching and soreness.
- It does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so you may need to use condoms as well.
- Some women get mild temporary side effects when they first start using the patch, such as headaches, nausea (sickness), breast tenderness and mood changes. These side effects usually settle down after a few months.
- Bleeding between periods (breakthrough bleeding) and spotting (very light, irregular bleeding) is common in the first few cycles of using the patch. This is nothing to worry about if you are using the patch properly, and you will still be protected against pregnancy.
For more information visit: http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/contraception-guide/Pages/contraception.aspx