Each patch lasts a week. You use 3 patches in a row for a total of 3 weeks, then stop for a week, during which a withdrawal bleeding similar to a menstrual period may occur. After the patch-free week, you restart a new patch and the 4-week cycle repeats again.

The patch is applied directly to clean, dry skin. Most areas of the body are suitable: the buttocks, hips, abdomen, shoulders and upper back are possible areas you can apply the patch to. You should avoid areas where friction between clothing and skin may cause the patch to come loose, or areas with open wounds or irritated skin. Rotating the site of application is recommended in order to reduce the risk of skin irritation.

The patch is extremely sticky and you can shower, swim, exercise and continue with daily activities with it on.

If the patch is started on Day 1 of the menstrual cycle, it is immediately effective in conferring protection against pregnancy. However, if it is started anytime else during the menstrual cycle, barrier protection (condoms) should be used for the first 7 days.

The safety and efficacy of Evra is well studied in women between 18-45 and is suitable for most women unless they have pre-existing medical conditions that preclude its use.

The hormonal components of the patch make it unsuitable for someone who may have:

• A risk of arterial or venous thromboembolism (blood clots in the arteries or veins)
  • Including previous episodes of blood clots or a family history suggestive of being prone to clots
  • BMI >30
  • Specific medical conditions associated with clotting tendencies
  • Age >35 and smoking
  • Hypertension
  • Migraines with aura
• Known or suspected cancers of the breast, endometrium or estrogen dependent cancers
• Liver disease
• Individuals on certain specific medications e.g. certain medications for HIV or epilepsy
• Breastfeeding mothers

Pros:

• If used correctly, the patch is an effective and convenient form of birth control which allows sexual spontaneity and requires changing only once a week (as opposed to taking a daily pill)
• For women struggling with PMS or heavy, painful menses, the patch will help reduce these symptoms, resulting in a lighter and less painful period
• It may reduce the risk of ovarian and womb cancers
• Illnesses like diarrhoea and vomiting do not affect the hormones released by the patch (as opposed to the birth control pill)

Cons:

• Potential skin irritation and discomfort
• Hormonal associated side effects (common to all hormonal forms of contraception) including spotting, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, many of which are mild and go away after the initial phase
• No protection against STDs

Tag: Contraceptive Patch Singapore

(e.g. the combined oral contraceptive pill, depot injection, hormonal implant and IUD?)

You may speak to a doctor to find out more about the various contraceptive methods and what may be most suitable for you.

Upon stopping the patch, return of fertility is fairly rapid; in most people, their menstrual periods will return to normal within 1-2 months. This may occasionally take up to 6 months.