Contraceptive patch - meaning and definition
Alsobirth control patchthe patchEvra patchXulane
Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
The contraceptive patch is a small sticky patch worn on the skin that releases an estrogen and a progestogen, changed once a week.
At a glance
- The patch is worn on the skin and releases an estrogen and a progestogen.
- It is typically changed once a week for three weeks, then left off for a week.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea do not affect it, because hormones pass through the skin.
- It is more than 99% effective with perfect use and around 91% with typical use.
- Its suitability rules are similar to those for the combined pill.
In detail
It works in the same way as the combined pill but delivers hormones through the skin, so vomiting or diarrhoea do not affect it. A typical routine is one patch a week for three weeks, then a patch-free week, although other patterns are possible.
It is more than 99% effective with perfect use and around 91% with typical use. Its suitability rules are similar to the combined pill, and some people notice skin irritation where it is worn.
In a sentence
- Patch day is Monday, so I change it before work.
- She chose the contraceptive patch because she kept forgetting daily pills.
Common questions
Does the patch work like the pill?
Yes. It works in the same way as the combined pill but delivers hormones through the skin, so it only needs changing once a week.
Can the patch cause skin irritation?
Some people notice irritation where the patch is worn. Changing where it is placed may help, and a pharmacist or clinician can advise if irritation continues.
Related terms
Sources
- NHSContraceptive patch
- Planned ParenthoodBirth Control Patch