How do I use the birth control (contraceptive) patch?

How to Use the Birth Control Patch

The birth control patch should be applied to clean, dry skin on the abdomen, upper torso, upper outer arm, or buttocks, replaced weekly for 3 consecutive weeks, followed by a patch-free week. 1

Initial Application

• For immediate protection, apply the first patch on the first day of your menstrual period
  • No backup contraception needed when starting on the first day of your period 1
• If starting at any other time in your cycle:
  • Apply the patch immediately
  • Use backup contraception (condoms) for the first 7 consecutive days 1
  • Consider emergency contraception if you had unprotected sex in the previous 5 days 1

Weekly Schedule

1. Week 1-3: Apply a new patch each week on the same day (your "patch change day")
2. Week 4: No patch (patch-free week) - this is when you'll typically have your period 1
3. After Week 4: Start a new cycle by applying a new patch on your regular patch change day

Proper Application Technique

• Apply to clean, dry skin free of lotions, oils, powder, or makeup
• Press firmly on the patch for 10 seconds to ensure good contact
• Check your patch daily to make sure it's still firmly attached
• Do not apply to skin that is red, irritated or cut
• Rotate application sites to prevent skin irritation 2, 1

Managing Delayed Application or Detachment

If less than 48 hours late:

• Apply a new patch immediately
• Keep your same patch change day
• No backup contraception needed
• If detachment occurred less than 24 hours after application, try to reapply or replace with a new patch 2

If 48 hours or more late:

• Apply a new patch immediately
• Keep your same patch change day
• Use backup contraception (condoms) or avoid sex for 7 consecutive days
• If this happens during the third patch week:
  • Skip the patch-free week
  • Start a new patch cycle immediately
  • Consider emergency contraception if unprotected sex occurred, especially if the delay was during the first week of patch use 2, 1

Effectiveness and Compliance

The birth control patch is highly effective when used correctly, with efficacy similar to oral contraceptives. Studies show better compliance with the weekly patch (88.2% perfect compliance) compared to daily pills (77.7%), which contributes to its real-world effectiveness 3.

Important Considerations

• The patch does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
• Some women experience side effects including:
  • Application site reactions
  • Breast tenderness
  • Spotting or breakthrough bleeding (especially in the first 2 cycles) 4, 3
• If you experience vomiting or severe diarrhea, the patch's effectiveness is not affected (unlike oral contraceptives) since it delivers hormones through the skin 2

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Applying the patch to areas where clothing might rub and loosen it
• Forgetting your patch change day (set a weekly reminder)
• Not checking daily that the patch remains firmly attached
• Using lotions or oils on the application site, which can prevent proper adhesion
• Waiting too long to apply a new patch after one detaches

Following these guidelines will help ensure the birth control patch provides effective contraception with minimal complications.