The Contraceptive Patch (Ortho Evra)
What is the Contraceptive Patch?
- The Contraceptive Patch is a small, smooth, beige,
square patch placed on the skin.
- The Patch releases (through the skin) man-made hormones
similar to the natural hormones that already exist in your body. It lasts one week. You wear a new
patch for 3 weeks of every month.
How does the Patch work?
- The Patch prevents your ovaries from releasing an ovum
(egg) each month.
- The Patch makes the cervical mucus thicker. This makes
it harder for sperm to enter the cervix.
- It changes the lining of the uterus. The lining of the
uterus gets thinner so it is harder for a fertilized egg to stick to the uterus.
Does the Patch protect me from STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)?
-
No
. The Patch does not protect you against STIs.
-
Always
use a condom when you have sex. This will reduce your
risk of getting a STI.
Where can I get the Patch? The contraceptive patch requires a prescription from a physician or
nurse practitioner. You can take your prescription to:
- A pharmacy
- A teen clinic
- A sexual health clinic
How do I use the Patch?
- Place the Patch on the buttocks, abdomen, upper body
(front or back, not the breast), or upper outer arm.
- Wear a new Patch every week for 3 weeks in a row. Wear
it in a different place each week.
- Always change the Patch on the same day of the
week.
- Do not wear the Patch on the 4th week (the Patch-free
week). This is the time you get your period).
- Wear a new Patch on the same day of the 5th week to
start a new cycle.
How soon does it start working?
Normally the Patch starts working after 14 days. To be
sure, use another method of birth control.
How effective is the Patch?
The Patch prevents pregnancy 99% of the time, when used
perfectly.
Are there any side effects?
You may feel some minor side effects. If they are very
uncomfortable or last longer than a few months, talk to your health care provider. Minor side
effects include:
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Breast discomfort
- Skin irritation at patch site
- Abdominal pain
- Menstrual cramps
- Changes in appetite
- Depression or sadness
Is the Patch safe for all women to use?
Ask your health care provider if it is right for you.
Tell him/her about any medical problems. The patch may not be right for you if:
- You smoke
- You are breastfeeding
- You are overweight (consult your health care
provider)
- You have a family history of breast cancer
- You have had heart disease, serious liver disease,
diabetes, or high blood pressure
-
Note:
if this method fails, and if you don’t want to get
pregnant, see a health care provider for emergency contraception as soon as you can.
For more information please call the Sexual Health Program:
Ph: 578-2513
E-mail:
sexualhealthprogram@brandonrha.mb.ca
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