THE CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH:
WHAT IS THE CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH?
It’s a thin, beige stick on patch measuring 5 x 5 cm. It contains the same hormones as the combined pill: estrogen and progestin and therefore functions in a similar fashion.
WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE PATCH USED IN OUR CENTERS?
The Evra Patch.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The contraceptive “patch” functions similarly to the combined pill. The difference is the combined pill is taken orally while the patch is applied on the skin.
· It stops ovulation (release of eggs from the ovaries).
· It thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to pass through into the uterus.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS THE PATCH?
When used according to instructions it’s more than 99 % safe. Research shows it’s less effective in women weighing 90 kg and over.
ADVANTAGES:
· You only have to remember to replace the patch once a week.
· It doesn’t interfere with sex and is easy to use.
· Monthly periods may be shorter, lighter and less painful.
· They can reduce the severity of acne.
· They offer some protection against:
* cancer of the womb and ovary.
* some pelvic infections.
WHEN IS THE CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH SUITABLE?
· When a woman prefers not to take a contraceptive pill every day.
· The effectiveness is not compromised in the event of diarrhea or nausea.
HOW RELIABLE IS THE CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH?
The contraceptive patch is 99% effective if applied according to instructions.
AREAS OF CONCERN
· It is visible.
· It may cause skin irritation in a small number of women.
· Like the Pill, temporary side effects when you first start may include headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, weight gain.
· It needs to be replaced after every seven days.
· It does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
· It may fall off and compromise effectiveness if not reapplied or replaced very soon.
THE CONTRACEPTIVE “PATCH” MAY NOT BE SUITABLE IF THE WOMAN:
· Is severely overweight.
· Is over 35 years old and smokes.
· Takes certain medicines e.g. for epilepsy or anti – biotics.
· Has had a previous thrombosis (blood clot in the vein or artery).
· Has a heart abnormality or high blood pressure.
· Has / had severe migraines.
· Has active liver or gall bladder disease.
· Has diabetes with complications.
CONSIDERATIONS ABOUT TAKING THE CONTRACEPTIVE “PATCH.”
· When applied on the 1st day of the period, it provides immediate protection from pregnancy.
· The next 2 patches are applied on day 8th and 15th days of your menstrual cycle.
· After 3 weeks you have a patch free week and during this time menstruation occurs. A new patch is applied after the 7 patch free days and the process starts again.
· The patch is very sticky and should stay on during bathing, swimming, saunas or exercise. If it does come off, it needs to be reapplied as soon as possible.
· If the patch has been off for less than 24 hours, just reapply it or use a new one. If it’s been off for longer than 24 hours, use an additional method of contraception for the next 7 days.
The Contraceptive Patch is available at all Marie Stopes centres.
For further information or to make a confidential booking please call our
Toll Free Number: 0800 11 77 85