• Thin, beige, plastic patch sticks to the skin.
• Hormones in the patch are continuously absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream.
• Prevents eggs from leaving the ovaries.
• Changes mucus at cervix, which prevents sperm from entering the uterus to fertilize egg.
  
   

• One patch is applied on the skin every week for 3 weeks, then 1 week off.
• May be applied to the buttocks, abdomen, upper outer arm or upper torso.
  
   

• Easy to use.
• No exam needed.
• Very effective.
• Likely to attain same benefits as pill users.
• Easily reversible.
• Can be dispensed without a pelvic exam after a medical history and blood pressure are taken.
• No pill to take every day.
  
   

• Possible minor reactions: Breast discomfort, headache, skin irritation at the patch site, nausea, abdominal pain, menstrual cramps.
• May be less effective in women weighing more than 198 lbs.
• No protection against STIs/HIV.
• Certain medications (seizure medications, antibiotics, antifungals, or anti-HIV protease inhibitors) may decrease effectiveness.
• May cause a change in vision or the inability to wear contact lenses.
• May become detached.
• Medical risks: Increased risk of blood clots, liver tumors, heart attack and stroke in women with certain risk factors, medical conditions and those who smoke.
  

Effectiveness: 99%

More information on the Patch.