The transdermal patch (skin patch)

The self-adhesive contraceptive patch (4.5 x 4.5 cm) contains synthetic hormones (oestrogen and progestogen) similar to those produced by the female body. In certain cases, these hormones may affect your health. It is best to talk to a doctor about your personal situation.

How it works

The transdermal patch (skin patch)

• prevents ovulation (release of an egg) as the ovaries become inactive.
• alters the lining of the uterus (endometrium) so that implantation of a fertilised egg is not possible.
• makes the cervical mucus thicker, thus preventing sperm from entering the uterus.

If used correctly, the method of contraception prevents pregnancy.

How to use it

One packet contains 3 contraceptive patches. This means you should apply a new patch once each week for three weeks, and then go for one week without a patch.

Apply the patch carefully onto a clean, dry area of your skin (without any body cream or oil). Choose a position on your lower abdomen, buttocks, back or upper arm. Do not put it on your breasts. Press down on it firmly with the flat of your hand and hold for 10 seconds. Choose a different position for the patch every week to prevent irritation of the skin.

• The first time you use a patch, apply it on the first day of your period =  immediate protection. If the method is started after day 2 of your period, use a condom for the next 7 days.
• Then start with a new series of three patches; again, on the same day of the week.
• If you start the method after day 2 of your period (day 2 of your menstrual cycle), use condoms for the first seven days.
• Then change the patch one week later, and then again after another week. Always change the patch on the same day of the week. Remove the old patch and apply a new one immediately.
• Take a 7 day break after the third patch has been on for 1 week.

Bleeding starts during this pill free week. It is normally lighter and less painful than a  normal period (menstruation).

If used correctly, the method also guarantees protection during the pill free week.

Shower, swim, sauna or exercise has no adverse effect on the patch; however, it is advisable to verify its adhesion after undertaking any of these activities.

If you…

……experience breakthrough bleeding while using the contraceptive, this is nothing to worry about. Keep using the contraceptive patch as usual. If the irregular bleeding continues  in the  months following, consult a doctor.

...are taking any medicine, ask a doctor or a chemist whether you are still protected. Preparations containing St. John’s wort, some antibiotics, certain antiepileptic drugs and HIV medication can reduce the contraceptive effect. Keep taking or using the contraceptive and use a condom during sex.

….stop using this method of contraception, the contraceptive effect ceases immediately. We recommend that you use all three patches in the package.

… do not have any bleeding during the break, start a new series of patches on the planned date and consult a sexual health service centre or a doctor.

If you forgot to change the patch

but remembered within LESS than 48 hours

Effective contraception is still guaranteed.

• Change the patch and continue as normal.
• Apply the next patch on your usual patch change day.

and MORE than 48 hours have elapsed

Effective contraception is no longer guaranteed.

If you have not had sex in the previous 5 days

• Remove the old patch. Apply a new patch to start a new series of three patches.
• Use a condom for seven days.

If you have had sex in the last five days

• Take an emergency contraceptiv pill as soon as possible and follow the recommendations of the professionals.
• Use a condom until the contraceptive has taken effect again. This will depend on the type of emergency contraceptive pill you use.

If you forgot to remove the 3^rd patch

• Remove the patch as soon as you realise your mistake.
• Start a new series of three patches on the usual patch change day (even though the break will be shorter).

If you have forgotten to apply the 1^st patch on at the end of the 7 day break

If the break without a patch has been longer than 7 days, effective contraception is no longer guaranteed.

If you have not had sex in the previous 5 days

• Apply the patch on as soon as you realise your mistake. The day you do so becomes your new patch change day.
• Use a condom for seven days.
• Apply the 2nd patch after one week.

If you have had sex in the last five days

• Take an emergency contraceptiv pill as soon as possible and follow the recommendations of the professionals.
• Use a condom until the contraceptive has taken effect again. This will depend on the type of emergency contraceptive pill you use

Your patch fell off

LESS than 24 hours ago

Effective contraception is guaranteed.

• Try to reapply the patch (do not try to stick the old patch on with a plaster or bandage). If it will not stay on: use a new patch, for example one from a spare packet.
• Change or remove the patch on the usual day.

MORE than 24 hours ago

Effective contraception is no longer guaranteed.

If you have not had sex in the previous 5 days

• Remove the patch. Apply a new patch and start a new series of three patches.
• Use a condom for seven days.

If you have had sex in the last five days

• Take an emergency contraceptiv pill as soon as possible and follow the recommendations of the professionals.
• Use a condom until the contraceptive has taken effect again. This will depend on the type of emergency contraceptive pill you use.

Good to know

• The best way to protect yourself against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections is to practice safer sex. This means:
  1. Use a condom during sexual intercourse with vaginal or anal penetration.
  2. Further information can be found at www.lovelife.ch

2023, SANTÉ SEXUELLE SUISSE, Fondation suisse pour la santé sexuelle et reproductive; ALECSS Association suisse latine des spécialistes en santé sexuelle, Éducation – Formation – Conseil; faseg, Fachverband sexuelle Gesundheit in Beratung und Bildung