Anti conception patch

Some women don't always have a bleed in their patch-free week. This is nothing to worry about if you've used the patch properly and have not taken any medicine that could affect it.

See a GP or nurse for advice if you're worried, or do a pregnancy test to check if you're pregnant. The contraceptive patch isn't suitable for everyone, so if you're thinking of using it, a GP or nurse will need to ask about you and your family's medical history. Tell them about any illnesses or operations you've had, or medicines you're taking. There is a very small risk of some serious side effects when you use a hormonal contraceptive, such as the contraceptive patch.

For most women, the benefits of the patch outweigh the possible risks, but you should discuss all risks and benefits with a GP or nurse before starting the patch. A very small number of people using the patch may develop a blood clot in a vein or an artery.

Don't use the patch if you've had a blood clot before. Research suggests that people who use the contraceptive patch have a small increased risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer compared with those who don't. But this reduces with time after stopping the patch.

Research also suggests there's a small increase in the risk of developing cervical cancer with long-term use of oestrogen and progestogen hormonal contraception. 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. Find your nearest sexual health clinic. If you need contraception, call your GP surgery or a sexual health clinic as soon as possible. Only go in person if you're told to.

It can take longer to get contraception at the moment and some types are not widely available. You may only be able to get a contraceptive patch if you've had your blood pressure and weight checked in the last 12 months. If you cannot get a contraceptive patch, you may be advised to use the progestogen-only pill or condoms for now.

Contraception services are free and confidential, including for people under the age of If you're under 16 and want contraception, the doctor, nurse or pharmacist won't tell your parents or carer , as long as they believe you fully understand the information you're given and the decisions you're making. Doctors and nurses work under strict guidelines when dealing with people under They'll encourage you to consider telling your parents, but they won't make you.

The only time that a professional might want to tell someone else is if they believe you're at risk of harm, such as abuse. The risk would need to be serious, and they would usually discuss this with you first. Page last reviewed: 6 July Next review due: 6 July Contraceptive patch - Your contraception guide Secondary navigation Getting started How does the female condom work?

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When can I use contraception after a baby or while breastfeeding? Where can I get contraception? Missed pills and extra pills What should I do if I miss a pill combined pill? What should I do if I miss a pill progestogen-only pill? You'll need to request a prescription for the birth control patch from your health care provider. Your health care provider will review your medical history and check your blood pressure. Talk to your health care provider about any medications you're taking, including nonprescription and herbal products.

Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Sections for Birth control patch About. Overview Birth control patch Open pop-up dialog box Close. Birth control patch The birth control patch is a contraceptive device that contains the hormones estrogen and progestin.

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Birth control methods. Office on Women's Health. Accessed April 15, Xulane prescribing information. Mylan Pharmaceuticals; Accessed April 14, Burkman RT. Contraception: Transdermal contraceptive patches. Accessed April 13, Hatcher RA, et al. Contraceptive patch and vaginal contraceptive ring.

In: Contraceptive Technology.