The Patch

Effectiveness: 99% (less in effective in women over 198 lbs)

Cost: $20.00-$30.00 A prescription from a physician is required. Can be purchased on a cost recovery basis at Health Services.

How It Works:

The patch is a thin, flexible, square, beige coloured patch. It is worn on one of four areas on the body (buttocks, abdomen, upper/outer arm or torso, excluding the breast). Each patch is worn for 7 days and replaced the same day of the week for 3 weeks. The fourth week is “patch free” and during this week you will get your period. Each week, the patch continuously delivers hormones through the skin and into the blood stream. This prevents ovulation and also prevents sperm from entering the opening of the cervix by creating a thickened cervical mucous.

Advantages

-An effective way to prevent pregnancy when used correctly

-It may reduce menstrual cramps and regulates periods

-You don’t have to interrupt sex

-You can wear the patch while exercising, swimming or in the shower

-It may reduce the incidence of cervical and endometrial cancer

Disadvantages

-Offers no protection from STI’s

-Slightly more expensive

-May cause skin irritation

-Side effects may include nausea, breast symptoms, headaches and or spotting

-Not advised for women who smoke

-Avoid using skin lotions in area of patch.

-If a corner lifts off, need to replace patch