The Contraceptive Patch
What is a Contraceptive Patch?
The Contraceptive Patch is a thin, beige plastic adhesive patch, like a bandaid, that can be placed on the skin of the buttocks, stomach, outer upper arm, or upper torso (not the breasts). The Contraceptive Patch releases the hormones estrogen and progestin into the body which keep a woman’s ovaries from releasing an egg. The hormones also thicken a woman’s cervical mucus which blocks sperm from moving to and reaching an egg. The patch is replaced each week for three weeks, and on the fourth week no patch is worn.
How effective is the Patch?
The Contraceptive Patch is a very effective contraceptive method. When used correctly, less than 1 out of 100 women using the Patch will be come pregnant each year.
Will the Patch protect against STDs?
No, like all hormonal methods of contraception, the Contraceptive Patch does not protect against STDs. To protect against STDs, you will need to use either a male and female condom along with the Patch.
What about Convenience?
Unlike the birth control pill, which requires remembering to take a pill each day, the Patch only requires changing once a week.
How can I get the Contraceptive Patch?
The Contraceptive Patch is prescribed by health care providers in combination with a physical examination and a complete medical history. The Patch requires a prescription that can be filled at a pharmacy.
For more about the Contraceptive Patch, click on a link.
How to Use the Contraceptive Patch
More Information about the Contraceptive Patch