The contraceptive patch is a small sticky patch worn on the skin. It works by releasing hormones into your bloodstream to stop you getting pregnant. It’s very effective when used right. Fewer than 1 in 100 women who use it for contraception will get pregnant in any 1 year.   

Evra is the brand used in the UK.

The contraceptive patch releases synthetic versions of two hormones called oestrogen and progesterone into your bloodstream. It works by: 

  • stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg during each period cycle
  • thickening the mucus at the neck of your womb (uterus), making it harder for sperm to get in 
  • thinning the lining of your womb so it’s more difficult for a fertilised egg to implant there

You wear a different patch every week for 3 weeks, then do not wear one for 1 week. 

You can put your contraceptive patch on most parts of your body, but it’s a good idea to move it where you place it each week to help prevent skin irritation. 

If you forget to take off your patch, or it falls off early, follow the instructions that came with your patch or contact your GP or nurse for advice. 

Most women can use the contraceptive patch. It can be a great option if you do not want to think about contraception every day or every time you have sex and do not want to take a longer-acting form of hormonal contraception (such as the contraceptive implant). 

The contraceptive patch is not for everyone. For example, you may not be able to use it if you have a high body mass index (BMI) or if you are a smoker over 35 years old. You may not be able to have a patch if you’re taking certain medicines such as ones used to treat epilepsy.

It will also not be the safest option for you if you:

  • have high blood pressure 
  • have a heart problem
  • have, or have had, breast cancer 
  • get migraines with aura (warning signs) 
  • have any disease of the liver or gallbladder

It is also not suitable if you have had a blood clot or have a condition that raises your risk of getting blood clots.

If you're thinking of using the contraceptive patch, chat with your GP or nurse to make sure it’s right for you.  

Pros: 

  • It can make your periods lighter and less painful and can help with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
  • You can get pregnant soon after stopping it, although it can sometimes take longer for your fertility to return to normal.   
  • It still works if you are sick or have diarrhoea.
  • It’s easy to use and should not come off in the shower or swimming pool. 
  • It does not affect sex.
  • You only need to change it once a week.
  • It can reduce your risk of ovarian, womb and bowel cancer. 

Cons:

  • It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • It may be on show depending on where you place it and what you’re wearing.
  • It can raise your blood pressure. 
  • It can sometimes cause sore skin, rashes and itching.
  • It can sometimes cause minor side effects like headaches, though these only tend to last a few months. 
  • You might get some spotting or bleeding between periods.  
  • Some women get a blood clot while using the patch, but this is rare. 

You can get it from sexual health clinics, contraception clinics and some GP surgeries. 

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