Patch

What is it and how does it work?

This is a patch that sticks to the your skin and releases the hormones estrogen and progestrogen/

This stops ovulation; thickens cervical mucus to stop sperm reaching an egg; and thins the lining of the womb to prevent a fertilised egg implanting. 

Effectiveness

99% effective 

Who can have it?

Women of child bearing age depending on consultation

Advantages

You don’t have to think about contraception while you are wearing a patch.  

It is not affected by having diarrhoea or vomiting.

It can make periods lighter, less painful and lighter.

Can also improve acne in some women. 

Disadvantages

Not suitable if you are overweight or a smoker over the age of 35.

Carries a small risk of blood clots to legs and lungs, and you also may increase your risk of breast and cervical cancers.

May get breast tenderness, mood changes, and headaches when you fist start using the patch.

You may develop skin irritation where the patch sticks to the skin. 

Risks/Side effects

Can be visible on the skin.

A new patch is required 3 out of 4 weeks.

May get breakthrough bleeding/spotting when you start using the patch.

Some medicines may stop the patch from working. 

Further guidance

Patch