The only contraceptive patch currently available measures five by five centimeters and is non-transparent. It is affixed to the abdomen, thigh, buttocks or the outside of the upper arm. The hormones estrogen and progestin are released continuously for 7 days and enter the bloodstream through the skin.

The patch is changed weekly, always on the same day. After 3 weeks (3 patches) there are 7 'patch-free' days during which bleeding occurs.

You can bathe and shower with the patch. However you should make sure that the patch does not come into contact with cosmetics or oils as this could make it come off.

Action and effectiveness of the contraceptive patch

The patch is an effective method of contraception. The sex hormones enter the circulation through the skin and suppress the release of hormones by the hypothalamus and the pituitary. This means that there is no impulse for ovulation. If no egg is released, you cannot become pregnant.

In addition, the build-up of the uterine lining is suppressed so that implantation of an egg in the uterus cannot take place.

The hormones in the patch also make the cervical mucus thick and sticky. Sperm are therefore unable to enter the uterus.

You also have contraceptive protection during the 7 patch-free days.

If you forget to apply the patch at the right time or if the patch comes off and is not replaced within 24 hours the contraceptive action may be reduced. There are concrete rules for these situations. It may be necessary to take additional precautions for a time. Speak to your doctor.

The contraceptive patch does not provide protection against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

If you want to have sex with a partner you know little about you should also use a condom.

Advantages of the contraceptive patch

Women who have difficulty taking the pill regularly also benefit from the contraceptive patch because they no longer have to remember to take a pill every day. The patch only has to be changed once a week.

Side-effects and risks of the contraceptive patch

The contraceptive patch is a highly potent medical device which can have side-effects. The following information gives a general outline of the side-effects and risks of the patch. However, in case of conflicting information the product information of the preparation you have been prescribed takes precedence. It is therefore important to read this carefully and follow any advice given by your doctor.

The patch can irritate the skin. It is not as unobtrusive to use as the pill, i.e. people can see that you are using a contraceptive. In addition, some women find the beige-colored and non-transparent patch a cosmetic problem.

Otherwise the side-effects, risks and contraindications of the patch are essentially the same as those of other estrogen-progestin contraceptives. Further information may be found in the section 'Side-effects and risks of the combined oral contraceptive'.