The Contraceptive Patch

February 27, 2023

What is it?

The patch is a small patch that sticks on your skin, releasing hormones into your body. This in turn prevents pregnancy.

How does it work?

You place the patch on your skin and wear it for seven days. The patch can be placed on most areas of your body that are clean, dry, and not too hairy. Never put the patch on sore/irritated skin, any area that may get rubbed, or your breasts. After that, you remove the patch and replace it with a new one. You should do this for three weeks and then take a one-week break. If you start using the patch on the first day of your period, and up to and including the fifth day of your period, you'll be protected from pregnancy straight away. If the patch is placed on any other day then you should still be using condoms for the first seven days.

If you've forgotten to take the patch off then you need to remove it before it goes over two days, and place a new one on, and keep to your usual changing day. If you've exceeded t48 hours place a new patch on ASAP and use additional forms of contraception.

What happens if it comes off?

The patch is quite sticky, so it shouldn't fall off. Nevertheless, if the patch does fall off for less than 48 hours you should put a new patch on and change it on your normal day. But, if it's been off for more than 48 hours you should put a new patch on, change it on your normal day, and in your third week start a new patch cycle and miss your usual patch-free week. If you're worried you might be pregnant you may need emergency contraception.

Pros and cons of using the patch:

The great thing about the patch is that it is easy to use and it still works if you've been sick or have diarrhea. In addition, the patch can make your periods more regular and relieve some premenstrual symptoms. However, the patch is visible and can cause some skin irritation. It does not protect you against STDs and can cause some mood swings + irregular bleeding. You should not use the patch if you've previously had blood clots. Speak with your doctor or a health professional about any pros, cons, and side effects regarding the patch.

‍

For more information on the patch please refer to the following:

NHS

Planned Parenthood

General Information

The information provided by Freyja is for general information purposes only. All information on the site is provided in good faith, however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the site. Under no circumstances shall we have any liability to you for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of the site or reliance on any information provided on the site. Your use of the site and your reliance on any information on the site is solely at your own risk.

Medical Advice

This website does not provide medical advice. The information provides by Freyja is for general information purposes only. Under no circumstances shall we have any liability for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of the site or reliance on any information provided on the site. Your use of the site and your reliance on any information on the site is solely at your own risk. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from a medical professional, and never delay in seeking any medical advice because of something you have read on this website.

External Links

The site may contain (or you may be sent through the site) links to other websites or content belonging to or originating from third parties or links to websites and features in banners or other advertising. Such external links are not investigated, monitored, or checked for accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness by us. We do not warrant, endorse, guarantee, or assume responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information offered by third-party websites linked through the site or any website or feature. We will not be a party to or in a way be responsible for monitoring any transaction between you and third-party providers of products or services.

Fitness

The site cannot and does not contain fitness advice. The fitness information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of fitness advice. The use or reliance of any information contained on the site is solely at your own risk.