contraceptivepatch
A contraceptive patch is a square plaster contains the hormones oestrogen and progestogen, which are released into the blood very gradually. The best-known contraceptive patch is Evra.
The operation of a contraceptive patch
The contraceptive patch is as effective as the pill. It works the same way, preventing ovulation, making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus, and making the inside lining of the uterus thinner.
Advantages of the contraceptive patch
- the contraceptive patch does not interfere with sex
- the contraceptive patcht does not, like the pill, have to be taken every day
- the hormones go direct into the bloodstream
Disadvantages of the contraceptive patch
- some people experience skin irritation
- side-effects may be the same as with the pill
How the contraceptive patch is used
The contraceptive patch is applied every week for three weeks, followed by a patch-free week, during which a bleeding occurs. The first contraceptive patch is applied on the first day of the period, or three weeks after the birth of a baby. The contraceptive patch is immediately effective.