The Contraceptive Patch: How It Works & What To Expect

zoe miller medical editor

Medically reviewed by

Dr Zoe Miller

Last reviewed: 12 Jun 2025

When it comes to choosing the best contraceptive for you, there are many options to choose from, including hormonal and non-hormonal types. For many people, hormonal contraception is an effective and reliable method that can be more than 99% effective at stopping pregnancy from occurring.

The contraceptive patch is one type of hormonal birth control option available. It can offer several advantages in that it only needs to be replaced once weekly and does not involve swallowing tablets, like the contraceptive pill.

Here, we explore how the patch works and its benefits, effectiveness, and how it compares to other methods, so you can be sure to choose the best contraceptive method for you.

What is the contraceptive patch?

The contraceptive patch is a type of hormonal birth control. In the UK, Evra is the only available contraceptive patch. It’s a small, thin, beige coloured 5cm by 5cm square that sticks directly to your skin and releases synthetic versions of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone into your bloodstream.

The contraceptive patch is flexible and very sticky, so it is designed to stay on your body comfortably, even when showering, bathing, swimming, or exercising.

How does the contraceptive patch work?

The contraceptive patch works similarly to the combined pill in that it contains synthetic versions of the hormones oestrogen (ethinylestradiol) and progesterone (norelgestromin). The patch sticks directly to your skin and steadily releases these hormones into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy by:

  1. Stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation).
  2. Thickening the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach an egg.
  3. Thinning the womb lining so a fertilised egg cannot implant itself there.

When used correctly, the contraceptive patch provides reliable and convenient protection against pregnancy.

How to use the contraceptive patch

To use Evra, you’ll wear 1 patch per week for 3 weeks, followed by a patch-free week. During this time, you’ll usually have a withdrawal bleed, similar to a period. When applying a new patch, choose a new area of skin each time to avoid irritation.

Before applying the patch, you need to choose where on the body you are going to stick it. You should:

  • always apply the patch on clean, dry, and hairless skin
  • stick the patch to your buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm or upper back, where it will not be rubbed by tight clothing
  • never apply the patch on your breasts or to skin that’s cut, red, or irritated

Once you have decided where to stick the patch, you’re ready to apply it:

  1. Open the foil sachet using your fingers by tearing along the edge. Do not use scissors.
  2. Firmly grasp a corner of the patch and gently remove it from the foil sachet.
  3. There is a clear protective covering on the patch. Sometimes the patch can stick to the inside of the sachet, so it's important that you do not accidentally remove the clear cover as you remove the patch.
  4. Peel away half of the protective cover, being careful not to touch the sticky surface.
  5. Stick the patch on your skin in your chosen area.
  6. Remove the other half of the covering.
  7. Press down firmly on the patch with the palm of your hand for 10 seconds.
  8. Ensure the edges are all stuck well to your skin.

To take the contraceptive patch:

  1. Wear the first patch for 7 days.
  2. On day 8, also known as your ‘Patch Change Day', remove the used patch and apply a new one straight away.
  3. Wear your new patch for 7 days before replacing it with a new one again on day 15.
  4. On day 22, remove the patch and leave it off for 7 days. During this time, you should have a withdrawal bleed. You may also be able to take the patch without a break and a bleed, but speak to your doctor first.
  5. On your normal ‘Patch Change Day’, – the day after day 28, apply a new patch even if you are still bleeding.

When can I start using the contraceptive patch?

Ideally, start using the contraceptive patch on days 1 to 5 of your period to be protected against pregnancy straight away. If you want to start it after day 5 of your period, you’ll need to use additional contraception for 7 days to protect against pregnancy.

If you’re using another type of contraception and want to switch, this table explains when you should start using the contraceptive patch and when you’ll be protected:

Type of contraception When to switch
The combined contraceptive pill or the combined vaginal ring
  • start the patch the day after your last active pill or vaginal ring – you do not need to wait for your period, and you will not need additional contraception
  • if you take any break between switching, use additional contraception for 7 days if you have sex
  • The progesterone-only pill (excluding ones containing desogestrel), or the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (IUS)
  • start the patch at any time during your menstrual cycle, there’s no need to wait for your period
  • use barrier contraception for the first 7 days if you have sex, afterwards, you’ll be protected
  • The injection, or a progesterone-only pill containing desogestrel
  • start the patch at any time up to the day your injection is due, or the day after the pill
  • you will not need additional contraception
  • if you take any break between switching, use additional contraception for 7 days if you have sex
  • A drospirenone progesterone-only pill
  • start the patch during days 8 to 24 of your active pills, no additional contraception will be needed
  • if you start at any other time, you’ll need to use additional contraception for 7 days
  • Special conditions:

  • do not start the patch during your placebo pills (days 25 to 28) or the first 7 days of your active pills if you had unprotected sex any time during this time
  • instead, wait until you’ve taken 7 pills in a row, then switch at day 8 to 24, or there’s a risk of pregnancy
  • The implant If the implant has been in for 3 years or less:
  • start the patch straight away
  • no additional contraception is needed
  • If the implant has been in 3 to 4 years:

  • start the patch straight away
  • use additional contraception for 7 days if you have sex
  • take a pregnancy test 21 days after you last had unprotected sex (if applicable) to rule out pregnancy
  • If the implant has been in more than 4 years:

  • if you have not had unprotected sex in the last 3 weeks, start the patch straight away and use protection for 7 days if you have sex
  • or

  • if you’ve had unprotected sex in the last 3 weeks, you may need emergency contraception, so speak to your doctor straight away
  • if pregnancy has been ruled out, start the patch straight away, use protection for 7 days, and take a pregnancy test 21 days after the last time you had unprotected sex during the switch
  • Copper intrauterine device (IUD)
  • remove the IUD on days 1 to 5 of your menstrual cycle
  • start the patch on the same day, or 7 days before removal — no contraception is needed
  • if you remove the IUD at any other time, use extra contraception for 7 days if you have sex
  • Top tips for using the patch

    To get the most out of the contraceptive patch, it must be used correctly and consistently. Here are some top tips to help you stay on track and get the best protection:

    1.Always apply the patch to clean, dry skin – your skin must be free from creams, lotions, powders or other topical products. Stick the patch on your upper arm, buttock, upper back, or stomach, but avoid areas that are oily, irritated, or hairy for the best adherence.

    2. Change the patch on time – replace the patch once a week on the same day each week for 3 weeks, then have a patch-free break. You may find it useful to set an alarm on your phone or use a medication reminder app so you do not forget.

    3. Check it daily – have a quick check each day to make sure the patch is still firmly in place, especially after swimming, exercising, or showering. While it's made to stick on even after getting wet, there’s still a chance it could come off.

    4. Rotate application sites – avoid applying the patch in the same place as the previous one to minimise irritation.

    5. Understand what to do if your patch falls off – familiarise yourself with the instructions in the patient information leaflet about what to do if the patch comes off, so you know what to do to stay protected.

    Effectiveness of the patch

    When used correctly, the contraceptive patch is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, when typical use, such as forgetting to change the patch, or the patch falling off, is taken into consideration, then this drops to 91%.

    Some of the factors that can impact the effectiveness of the contraceptive patch include:

    • forgetting to change the patch on time
    • the patch falling off for more than 24 hours without being replaced
    • taking certain medications and herbal remedies like those used to treat HIV, hepatitis C, epilepsy, and St. John’s wort
    • weighing over 90kg

    To stay protected from pregnancy, it’s important to use the contraceptive patch exactly as your doctor has told you to. If you are unsure, contact them for further advice or use extra contraception, like condoms.

    Side effects and risks

    The contraceptive patch, like all medications, can cause side effects, but not everyone will get them. The most common side effects include:

    • headache
    • nausea
    • breast tenderness
    • mood changes
    • vaginal yeast infection (female thrush)
    • vaginal discharge
    • uterine spasms
    • dizziness
    • migraine
    • stomach ache or bloating
    • being sick or diarrhoea
    • acne, skin rash, or skin irritation
    • muscle spasms
    • breast pain, enlargement, or lumps
    • period changes
    • tiredness or generally feeling unwell
    • weight gain
    • application site reactions

    Uncommon, and more serious side effects (affecting up to 1 in 100 women) include:

    • allergic reactions (wheezing, hives, vomiting, loss of consciousness)
    • swelling
    • insominia
    • high levels of fat in the blood
    • low libido
    • eczema
    • abnormal breast milk production
    • vaginal dryness
    • sensitivity to light
    • hair loss
    • high blood pressure

    You should seek medical assistance immediately if you experience any of the following rare side effects (affecting 1 in 1,000 women):

    • blood clot
    • changes in your breasts (lumps)
    • abnormal cells in your cervix
    • abnormal taste
    • brown spots on the face
    • gallstones or blockages in the bile duct
    • yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
    • itchy skin
    • scaly, flaky and red skin
    • fluid retention
    • swelling in hands, legs, arms or feet
    • abnormal vaginal discharge
    • issues wearing contact lenses
    • sharp increase in blood pressure
    • fibroids
    • ulcers in the site of application of patch

    You can find a full list of side effects and more details on them in the patient leaflet provided with the Evra patch.

    Contraceptive patch risks

    The contraceptive patch can slightly increase the chance of blood clots. The likelihood of getting a blood clot is very small, affecting up to 1 in 1,000 people who use combined hormonal contraception, including the patch. However, your doctor will discuss this and your family history with you to make sure the patch is safe for you to use.

    The contraceptive patch can also slightly raise your chances of getting breast and cervical cancer, but this returns to normal 10 years after you stop using the patch. However, it can lower your chance of the following cancers:

    • womb
    • ovarian
    • bowel

    Benefits of the contraceptive patch

    Despite some of the potential risks and side effects of the contraceptive patch, it also offers several benefits:

    Convenience and ease of use
  • Unlike a daily pill, the patch only needs to be changed once weekly
  • It’s easy to apply and does not interrupt sex
  • May improve acne
  • Releases oestrogen and progesterone into the bloodstream, which can help regulate oil production in the skin, reducing the occurrence of breakouts
  • Several studies have found that in some people, the patch can improve facial acne and papulo-pustular inflammatory acne
  • Reduces PCOS and endometriosis pain
  • By regulating hormone levels and stopping ovulation, the patch may ease painful periods, often caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis
  • May stop periods, relieving symptoms. This is especially the case if taken continuously (without breaks between patches)
  • Helps to regulate periods
  • By releasing hormones into your bloodstream, the contraceptive patch regulates your menstrual cycle
  • In some people, the patch can make periods lighter, regular, less painful, or stop altogether
  • Non invasive
  • The contraceptive patch is non-invasive and needle-free, unlike the contraceptive injection or devices like a vaginal ring
  • You can apply it yourself without the need to visit a clinic each time
  • Reversible
  • You can stop using the patch at any time
  • Your fertility should return to previous levels after 1 to 3 months
  • May lower the risk of certain cancers
  • Long-term use may slightly reduce the chance of getting ovarian, womb, or bowel cancer
  • Comparing the patch to other contraceptive methods

    Not sure if the patch is the best birth control method for you? Here’s how it compares to other popular contraceptive options, including the combined pill, the implant, and the intrauterine system (IUS).

    *Please slide to view more

    Contraceptive patch Combined pill IUS Contraceptive implant
    How it works Releases synthetic oestrogen and progesterone via the skin into the bloodstream to stop ovulation, thin the womb lining, and thicken cervical mucus Regulates the menstrual cycle by releasing synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone to stop ovulation, thin the womb lining, and thicken cervical mucus Releases progesterone into the womb, thickens cervical mucus, thins the womb lining, and may prevent ovulation. Small, flexible tube inserted under the skin of your upper arm that releases progesterone to stop ovulation. Also thins the womb lining and thickens cervical mucus
    How often it's taken/changed Once weekly Once daily Every 3 to 8 years Every 3 years
    Effectiveness (perfect use) >99% >99% >99% >99%
    Effectiveness (typical use) 91% 91% >99% >99%
    Key points Weekly commitment, designed to stay in place when swimming, bathing, and exercising. Suitable alternative to the combined pill Daily commitment, but can regulate periods, reduce pain, and improve acne Safe to use while breastfeeding

    An effective treatment for heavy periods, and available as a non-hormonal copper version

    A good option if you cannot tolerate oestrogen

    Lasts for up to 3 years, and is useful if you struggle to remember a daily pill or weekly patch

    Application Applied yourself at home Self-administered/td> Fitted by a healthcare professional Fitted by a healthcare professional

    ➤ You can find out more about the different types of contraception in our guide to help you make a more informed decision.

    How to get the contraceptive patch

    The contraceptive patch is a prescription-only type of hormonal contraception, which means you’ll need a doctor’s approval to obtain it. You can request Evra from Superdrug Online Doctor.

    To request Evra Patches from Superdrug Online Doctor, you need to:

    1. Fill in a brief questionnaire about your health and lifestyle.
    2. Select your preferred choice of treatment and make payment.
    3. One of our doctors will review your questionnaire answers.
    4. If your request is approved, your treatment will be posted directly to your address or a Superdrug Pharmacy for collection.
    5. If treatment is not right for you, one of our doctors will contact you via your account with other suitable options.

    Is the contraceptive patch available on the NHS?

    Yes, the contraceptive patch is available on the NHS, through:

    • sexual health clinics
    • some GP surgeries
    • some young people’s services

    You will need to make an appointment or visit a drop-in service to get it.

    Conclusion

    The contraceptive patch is a convenient, effective, and reversible birth control method that has several benefits. It’s a small, sticky patch applied directly to the skin on your abdomen, buttocks, upper arm, or back, and steadily releases synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone. Doing so helps to make it more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when used perfectly.

    Compared to other methods like the combined pill, IUS, or implant, the patch offers a balance between ease of use and flexibility because it only needs to be changed weekly, rather than daily, and does not require the use of long-term devices or require a healthcare professional to fit it.

    If you think the contraceptive patch may be a good fit for you, request the Evra Patch from Superdrug Online Doctor, or if you’re not sure, start a contraceptive pill consultation with one of our doctors now.

    FAQs

    Can I shower or swim wearing the contraceptive patch?

    Yes, you can shower or swim while wearing the contraceptive patch, and it should stay in place because it's waterproof. The patch is very sticky and is meant to remain in place while showering, bathing, using a hot tub or sauna, swimming, or during exercise.

    What should I do if the patch falls off?

    If the contraceptive patch falls off or becomes partly detached, what you need to do depends on how long it has been since it has fallen off.

    If your patch has been off or partially detached for less than 24 hours:

    • put a new patch on in the same place (do not try to reapply the old patch, just throw this one away)
    • change it as usual on your normal patch change day
    • its effectiveness should not be reduced
    • no additional contraceptive is needed

    If the patch has been off or detached for more than 24 hours, or you’re not sure when it came off:

    • put a new patch on
    • change it on your usual change day, if you’re in week 1 or 2 of your patch cycle
    • if you’re in week 3, you’ll need to start a new patch cycle – this will now be day 1 of your new cycle and you should miss your patch-free week
    • you’ll need to use additional contraception, like condoms, for 7 days

    Can the contraceptive patch cause weight gain?

    Weight gain is a common reported side effect of contraceptive patches, but there is no definitive evidence that the patch makes you gain weight. Some people may report weight changes, especially during the first few months of using the patch, but these are more likely due to fluid retention rather than an increase in fat.

    Can the contraceptive patch stop my period?

    Yes, in some people the patch can stop your period, especially when taken long-term and perfectly (without missing patches or patches falling off). However, during your patch-free week, you will usually get a withdrawal bleed, which is similar to a period. You can prevent a withdrawal bleed completely by using contraceptive patches back to back without a break.

    Like the pill, the contraceptive patch may also improve period symptoms, like pain, and irregular, heavy periods.

    Can the contraceptive patch cause bigger breasts?

    Yes, the contraceptive patch can sometimes cause temporary breast enlargement or tenderness as a side effect. However, this is usually temporary and usually resolves within a few months as your body gets used to the medication.

    Can the contraceptive patch make you moody?

    Yes, mood changes are a common side effect of the contraceptive patch, affecting up to 1 in 10 people. Some people will experience mood changes, irritability, or sadness when they first start using the patch, but these usually go away within a few months. If they persist or you are finding mood changes difficult to manage, speak to your doctor for advice. They may recommend trying a different method of contraception.

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