The contraceptive patch is a hormonal contraceptive method in the form of an adhesive transdermal patch that releases estrogen and progestin.
Mode of action:
- It prevents ovulation;
- It thickens cervical mucus, blocking the passage for spermatozoa (sperm);
- It alters the lining of the uterus (endometrium), making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.
Advantages
- It does not interfere with sexual relations.
- It reduces the risk of forgetting since the patch is changed once a week.
- Unlike the pill, the effectiveness of the patch is not diminished by vomiting or diarrhea.
- It promotes regular, predictable menstruation, and regulates the menstrual cycle.
- It may reduce premenstrual symptoms, heavy bleeding, and cramps.
- It reduces the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer.
- Fertility returns as soon as the method is stopped.
Disadvantages
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and blood-borne infections (STIs/STDs);
- The contraceptive patch may be less effective in people weighing more than 90 kilograms (198 pounds);
- The most common side effects are irregular bleeding, nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, skin irritation, etc. If you experience side effects, it is recommended that you wait three months before changing your method of contraception, as these effects usually disappear after this period. However, if the side effects are severe, you should consult a doctor immediately.
- The contraceptive patch is contraindicated for: smokers over the age of 35, women who are pregnant or think they may be pregnant, women with a history of arterial problems, thrombosis (blood clots), migraines, etc.
How do I get the contraceptive patch?
Instructions for use
When should I start applying the patch?
- On the 1st day of menstruation.
- The Sunday following the 1st day of menstruation to avoid bleeding on weekends.
- On the day of your choice.
Caution!
When starting this method, we recommend using a condom for at least 7 days, because the contraceptive patch does not reach its maximum effectiveness in the first few days. Nonetheless, it is suggested that you use a condom for the first month of use as you get into the habit of using your method correctly.
Afterwards…
- Use one contraceptive patch per week for 3 consecutive weeks. The 4th week is patch-free.
- Apply the patch to clean, dry skin without irritation or cuts. Avoid using powders, creams, oils, or make-up near the patch.
- The patch can be applied alternately to the buttocks, abdomen, upper back, or outer upper arm. Do not apply the patch to the breasts.
- Patch changes always take place on the same day of the week and at the same time.
The continuous patch
You can choose to use the patch continuously, which means applying a new patch every week without taking a week off. This method usually eliminates or spaces out bleeding.
Before using the patch continuously, it is important to discuss it with a doctor to see if this method is right for you.
If you use the patch continuously and something reduces its effectiveness, you may not notice it as quickly, since the prolonged absence of bleeding can delay the discovery of a pregnancy. This can limit your options in the event of an unplanned pregnancy.
Situations that reduce the effectiveness of the patch
If one of the following situations occurs, it is suggested to use the condom for 7 days and to take a pregnancy test 2 to 3 weeks later.
Finally, if you find yourself in one of these situations, find out if an emergency method can help you prevent pregnancy!
If it was partially or completely removed for less than 24 hours
- Try to put it back on (if possible) or apply a new patch immediately.
Forgotten or detached for more than 24 hours during the first week
- Apply the patch as soon as possible and do a 3-week cycle.
- The day you change it remains the same.
Forgotten or detached for less than 3 days during the second or third week
- Apply the patch as soon as possible.
- End the patch cycle and start a new one without taking a patch-free break (there will be no bleeding).
Forgotten or detached for more than 3 days
- Remove the patch, apply a new one, and finish the patch cycle.
- Start a new cycle without taking a patch-free break (there will be no bleeding).
- The day you change it remains the same.
If you forget to remove your patch at the end of the cycle (week 4)
- Remove it and apply the next patch on the scheduled day.
Taking certain medications or natural products
- It’s important to check with a healthcare professional to see if the medications or natural products you are using reduce the effectiveness of your patch.