Ortho Evra, or “The Patch” contains the same two hormones, estrogen and progestin, as birth control pills. “The Patch” prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation (release of an egg) and by making the lining of the uterus thinner. The Ortho Evra Patch is worn for one week for each of 3 consecutive weeks on the lower abdomen, buttocks, upper-arms, or torso (except for the breasts). The 4th week is patch-free to permit a withdrawal bleed, or your period. Among typical couples who initiate use of “the Patch”, about 8% will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year. This is because sometimes “the Patch” is not used correctly. If “the Patch” is used consistently and correctly, less than 1% of women will become pregnant. A second form of contraception (backup method) should be used for the first 7 days of your first patch placement. Complete information about this contraceptive is available from your clinician or the package insert accompanying the Ortho Evra Patch.

Advantages:

• Option for women who have trouble remembering to take pills every day.
• Reduces menstrual blood loss and the risk for anemia, and decreases menstrual cramping and pain just like combined pills.
• Many women enjoy sex more when using “the Patch” because they know they are less likely to get pregnant.
• A woman may bathe, swim, and do normal activities while using “the Patch”, because it rarely comes off with normal use.
• No data yet, but probably decreases a woman's risk for cancer of the ovary and cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer) as does the pill.

Disadvantages:

• “The Patch” does not protect you from HIV or other infections. Use a condom if you may be at risk.
• You have to remember to remove and replace your patch every week.
• A small percentage of women have had application site problems that include detachment of the patch, skin irritation, and discoloration of the skin under the patch.
• Nausea and/or spotting are two problems women may have using “the Patch”, especially during the first month of use.
• Breast discomfort is more common in women on “the Patch” versus women on “the Pill” during the first 2 cycles.
• May be less effective than “the Pill” in women weighing more than 198lbs (90kg). Women who are overweight may wish to use a backup method like condoms to increase the efficacy of “the Patch”.
• Some women using “the Patch” may experience side effects such as headaches, mood changes or decreased enjoyment of sex.
• Serious complications such as blood clots may occur but are very rare.
• “The Patch” requires a prescription and can be expensive.


Where can I get the Ortho Evra Patch?

In the United States “the Patch” requires a prescription. You can get “the Patch” from your doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, health department, or family planning clinic.

What if I have sex and don't use birth control?

For 72 hours AFTER unprotected sex, you can take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid becoming pregnant. For up to 7 days AFTER unprotected sex, you can have an IUD put in. Not all clinicians know about emergency contraception. If you want more information or would like the phone numbers of clinicians near you who prescribe emergency contraception, CALL the toll-free hotline 1-888-NOT-2-LATE or 1-800-584-9911. Some of these sources of help are free.