Contraceptive patch

The contraceptive patch is a very effective method of contraception. It works by releasing the synthetic hormones oestrogen and progestogen into your bloodstream through your skin. It’s easy to apply and you only need to change it once a week. It also allows you to control when you bleed.

It works by releasing synthetic copies of reproductive hormones oestrogen and progesterone at a steady rate to prevent the release of an egg (ovulation) each month.

You can start using it at any time in your cycle. The patch needs replacing every 7 days. You can use it continuously (replacing it every 7 days) and you will usually not bleed at all.

Or you can leave a gap of 4–7 days without the patch every month or every 3 months if you want to have a regular bleed.

Positive side effects include lighter periods, less period pain and ovulation pain, and helping with acne. Negative side effects include breast tenderness, nausea and possible mood changes.

It has similar health benefits and risks to the combined pill. It may increase your risk of thrombosis and breast cancer but decrease your risk of cancer of the lining of the womb and ovary.