How to use a contraceptive patch

Use one patch at a time. Apply a patch to clean, dry, hairless skin. Keep the patch on for 7 days. Change the patch on the same day. After three weeks of continuous patch use, take a 7-day break from the patch.

Evra can also be used in the following ways:  

• Extended use: 1 patch weekly for 9 weeks then no patch for the next 4 or 7 days.
• Continuous use: 1 patch weekly with no break.

You can shower, sauna and exercise while wearing the patch. However, you should check that the patch has not fallen off after these activities. Do not use tape to keep the patch in place. Find out more about using the Evra Patch here. 

How does the Evra Patch work?

The Evra Patch is a hormone-releasing patch which sticks to the skin. The patch is approximately 2 inches by 2 inches. It contains synthetic oestrogen and progesterone that are absorbed into the body through the skin. These hormones work to prevent pregnancy by stopping your body releasing an egg (ovulation). The hormones also thicken the mucus in your cervix which block sperm from getting in.  

How effective is the patch?

If you apply the Evra patch the first day of your period, you will be protected from pregnancy immediately.

If used correctly the patch is 99% effective. If it isn’t always used correctly, 9 out of 100 users will get pregnant.  

What are the benefits of using an Evra Patch?

There are lots of advantages to using the contraceptive patch, particularly if you are someone who worries about forgetting to take the pill. The patch has to be changed weekly and can be worn while swimming, in the bath, shower, a hot tub or sauna and doesn’t interrupt sex. 

As the hormones are absorbed through the skin, not the stomach, if you vomit or have diarrhoea, it will still work. Some women also find it helps acne, and can make periods more regular, lighter and less painful. The patch may also reduce the risk of some cancers, recurrent endometriosis after surgery and help problems associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). 

Where do I put the Evra patch?

The most asked question when it comes to the Evra Patch is where to put it. Simply put, the patch can be placed almost anywhere on your body. As long as the skin is clean, dry and not too hairy. It’s not advised to put the patch on sore or irritated skin, an area which might get rubbed by tight clothing (like underneath the bra strap), or the breasts.

With each patch it’s advised to change the position on the skin to avoid the potential of irritating the skin. 

What are the side effects of the contraceptive patch?

Most women experience no Evra Patch side effects. However, headaches, skin irritation, nausea and breast tenderness are the most common side effects that have been reported.

Rarely, some women develop blood clots. This contraceptive carries a slightly higher risk of blood clots than others. If you have any concerns, send us a message via your Patient Record. 

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, contact us via your Patient Record.

If you decide you want to stop using the patch your body will return to how it was before you were on it. This can take some time and some people find they experience side effects when coming off the Evra Patch. Your periods may take some time to settle back to how they were before.