Birth Control Patch (Ortho-Evra)

Birth Control Patch (Ortho-Evra)

The birth control patch, a type of hormonal birth control, is a small, sticky square patch that delivers hormones to the body through the skin and is designed to prevent pregnancy. The patch can be worn on the arm, upper back, buttocks, or hips.

How Long It Lasts: Each patch lasts 7 days, and 3 patches should be used over the course of 21 days. At the end of 21 days, the user will go patch-less, and this when menstruation will occur.

Maintenance: At the end of 7 days the patch being worn should be removed and a new patch should be placed in a different location on the body. Although the patch is designed to stay on through regular daily activities (showering, sweating, etc), if a patch falls off, the user should replace it with a new patch as soon as possible.

Patch Specific Concerns: Although all birth control increases the risk for blood clots, the patch has a higher dosage of hormones, and may pose a greater risk than other methods. The patch only comes in a color that is discreet for lighter flesh tones. Because it sticks to skin with adhesive, the patch may leave a ring of adhesive on the skin after it is removed.

Effectiveness: The patch is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly.

Note: The patch does not protect the user from Sexually Transmitted Infections.