(click to alter)The contraceptive patch is a form of hormonal contraception worn by women to prevent them getting pregnant. It prevents pregnancies from developing by introducing hormones into the body which prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg.
The contraceptive patch is very reliable and easy to use. You stick it on a clean, dry and hair-free area of your body, such as the buttocks, stomach, chest (but avoid the breasts) or the outside of your upper arm. You should not put the patch on areas of the skin that are broken or irritated. Every week, the patch needs to be changed for a new one.
Unlike like barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, the contraceptive patch does not protect you from getting sexually transmitted infections.
You should always use condoms during sexual intercourse to protect yourself from catching an infection.
