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Contraceptive patch

CONTRACEPTIVE

PATCH

    How do you use the patchexpand_less
    1. You simply peel off the back of the patch and apply it directly to your skin – on your lower abdomen, buttocks, upper arm, or even your back. You wear it for a week and then replace it with a new one. You should do this for 3 weeks so that you wear the patch for a total of 21 days. During the fourth week, you have a break and don’t wear the patch for 7 days, which allows for menstrual bleeding (also known as a withdrawal bleed). Then you repeat that routine.
    2. You can put the patch on most areas of your body, as long as the skin is clean, dry and not very hairy. You shouldn't stick the patch onto your breasts, sore or irritated skin or an area where it may get rubbed off by clothing. It's also a good idea to change the position of each new patch to help reduce the chance of skin irritation.
    Patch process
    HOW DO I GET THE PATCHexpand_less

    You can be prescribed the patch by your doctor or a nurse.

    When you first get the contraceptive patch you will be given a 3-month supply, to see how you get on with it. If there are no problems, you can be prescribed the patch for a year at a time.

    You can get contraception for free, even if you’re under 16, from:

    • Contraception clinics
    • Sexual health or GUM (genitourinary medicine) clinics
    • Some GP surgeries
    • Some young people's services

PP-UN-WHC-GB-0300 July 2025