The contraceptive patch is a contraceptive method in which hormones (estrogen and progestogen) are absorbed through the skin. Thus, like the pill, the contraceptive patch protects up to 99% against pregnancy, as long as it is used correctly.
To use the sticker correctly, it is important to take some care, especially to prevent it from coming off and not to place it twice in a row in the same place.
Some brands of contraceptive patch are Evra and Lisvy, which can be found in pharmacies and are sold after presenting a gynecologist’s prescription.
How the sticker works
The contraceptive patch releases hormones into the bloodstream that prevent ovulation, in addition to making the cervical mucus thicker, preventing sperm from reaching the uterus, greatly reducing the chances of pregnancy.
When using the patch, menstruation should begin during the week of the break, just as with the contraceptive pill.
How to use the sticker
To use the contraceptive patch, you must peel off the back of the patch and stick it on your arms, back, lower part of your belly or butt, and it is recommended to avoid the breast area.
When affixing the sticker, it is also important to ensure that it is in an easily accessible and visible place, to allow you to check its integrity every day. This type of adhesive has good implantation and, therefore, does not usually come off easily, even when taking a shower, but it is good to be able to see it daily. You should avoid placing it in places where there are folds of the skin or where clothes are tighter so that it does not get wrinkled or wrinkled.
Before applying the patch to your skin, it is important to make sure your skin is clean and dry. You should not apply cream, gel or lotion over the adhesive to prevent it from coming loose. However, he doesn’t come out in the shower and you can go to the beach, pool and swim with him.
How to put the sticker on for the first time
The first contraceptive patch must be placed on the first day of menstruation or within the first 5 days of the start of menstrual bleeding, this being considered day 1. It is recommended that a condom be used during sexual intercourse in the first 7 days to prevent unwanted pregnancy.
The second patch must be applied 7 days later, that is, on the 8th day, and the third patch, 7 days after the second patch, that is, on the 15th day. On the 22nd day of using the patch, the fourth week begins, and the patch should not be used.
The patch is used for 3 consecutive weeks and must be removed in the fourth week, which is considered the rest week. After 7 days without the patch, another one must be placed on a different location on the body, at the same time as the previous application, starting the new cycle, regardless of whether there has been menstrual bleeding.
Example: whether the first contraceptive patch is placed on the day March, 15this is considered day 1. The second patch must be applied 7 days later, that is: March 15th (day 1) + 7 days = March 22. The third patch must be applied 7 days later, that is: March 22nd + 7 days = March 29th. After 7 days, that is, on April 5th, the patch must be removed and wait another 7 days, and a new cycle of use of the contraceptive patch must be started on the day April 12th (trip 1).
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantages and disadvantages of the contraceptive patch are:
Possible side effects
The effects of the transdermal patch are the same as the pill, including skin irritation, vaginal bleeding, fluid retention, increased blood pressure, dark spots on the skin, nausea, vomiting, breast pain, cramps, abdominal pain, nervousness, depression, dizziness, hair loss and an increase in vaginal infections.
Furthermore, like any hormonal therapy, the patch can cause changes in appetite and hormonal imbalances, making it easier to gain weight and making women gain weight.
When it is not indicated
The use of the contraceptive patch is not indicated for women with liver failure, post-menopause, at risk of venous or arterial thromboembolism, with a history of migraines and/or who are hypersensitive to the active ingredients of some of the patch’s components. Furthermore, it should be avoided by women who are suspected of having breast or endometrial cancer.
Although it is not a contraindication, it is possible that in women weighing more than 90 kg the patch will not have the desired effect and, therefore, it is important that the gynecologist is consulted so that another contraceptive method can be indicated.
Common questions about the contraceptive patch
Below are the most common questions about using the adhesive:
1. What should I do if I forget to change the sticker on the right day?
The patch does not lose its effectiveness before 9 days of use, so if you forget to change the patch on the 7th day, you can change it as soon as you remember, as long as it does not go more than 2 days before the change day, continuing the programmed cycle. However, it is important to pay attention to the change date so that the patch has adequate activity and the contraceptive action is guaranteed.
If you have forgotten for more than 48 hours, it is recommended to start a new cycle of 3 weeks and use a condom during sexual intercourse during the first 7 days.
2. What to do if the sticker comes off?
If the sticker completely comes off before the first 24 hours of use, it is recommended to try to stick it again. However, if this is not possible, a new patch can be placed without changing the start date of the next cycle.
If the patch completely comes off more than 24 hours after its partial removal, it is recommended to apply a new patch and start a new full cycle of 3 weeks, in addition to being recommended to use a condom during sexual intercourse for the first 7 days.
3. How should I switch from an oral contraceptive to a patch?
Changing the contraceptive method must be guided by the gynecologist. In the case of switching from an oral contraceptive to the patch, it is recommended that the switch takes place on the first day of menstruation, and a barrier contraceptive method must be used in the first 7 days of the switch. If there has been no menstruation, the change must occur 5 days after taking the last oral contraceptive. See in more detail how to change contraceptives.
