A contraceptive patch is a square-shaped adhesive that contains the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. You may place the patch on your skin, and these hormones are absorbed into the blood stream through the skin.
Where can we stick the patch?
The patch can be pasted on your lower abdomen, upper arms, upper back, and buttocks with extreme caution that it not be placed on your breasts.
How does the patch exert its effects?
The patch contains the hormones oestrogen and progestin, just like combined contraceptive pills. So, it produces its effect the same way combined pills do, i.e., by inhibiting egg release from ovaries. In addition, by thickening cervical mucus to form a barrier for sperm entering into the uterus.
How to wear a patch and when?
Your clinician would advise you to wear the patch for a week and keep on wearing it for a consecutive three weeks. Then, you will remove the patch and may experience your menstrual period. After one week, wear a new patch on the same day, even if you are still bleeding.
What are the benefits of using contraceptive patches?
The patch has many benefits over other contraceptive options, including:
- It does not require to be changed or placed every day.
- It is as effective as other hormonal pills.
- It may ease your period, making it more regular.
- It may help in reducing acne and facial hair.
What are the drawbacks to contraceptive patches?
- It may cause skin irritation.
- It may cause unexpected bleeding.
- Soreness of the breasts, headaches, and nausea may occur.
- Women over the age of 35, as well as those who are overweight and smoke, should not use the patch.
- It is not recommended for patients with hypertension, strokes, or clotting disorders.
What are the brand names of contraceptive patches?
- Evra
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