Evra Patch (Contraceptive Patch)
The Evra Patch, also known as the Evra contraceptive patch or birth control patch, is a small, sticky patch you simply wear on your skin once a week. When used correctly, it’s over 99% effective and offers reliable, low-maintenance protection without the need to remember a pill every day.
In a nutshell:
Apply it weekly
Not affected by vomiting or diarrhoea
Discreet and easy to use
Need yearly blood pressure and weight check
From £33.00 for 3 months
From £55.00 for 6 months
From £110 for 12 months
How to use a contraceptive patch
Stick one patch on clean, dry, hair-free skin. Leave it on for 7 days, then replace it with a new one on the same day each week.
You can use the patch for three weeks in a row, then take a seven-day break (without the patch during this time), and you’ll still be protected during the break.
Other ways to use the patch:
Extended use: Wear a patch each week for 9 weeks, then take a four or 7-day break.
Continuous use: Keep using a new patch every week with no breaks.
The good thing about the patch is that you can swim, shower, exercise, and even use a sauna with it on. But always check to make sure it hasn’t come loose, and don’t try to stick it down with tape. If it does fall off, you can just replace it with a new one.
How does the Evra Patch work?
The Evra Patch releases hormones (oestrogen and progestogen) through your skin into your body. These hormones prevent pregnancy by:
Stopping ovulation so your ovaries don’t release an egg
Thickening cervical mucus, which makes it harder for sperm to reach an egg
Thinning the womb lining, making it less likely for a fertilised egg to implant
How effective is the patch?
When used correctly, the Evra Patch is more than 99% effective.
If it’s not always used perfectly, for example, if the patch isn’t changed on time, about 8 in 100 usersmay get pregnant. Use an alternative, non-hormonal method of contraception (like condoms) if application is delayed until you change your patch.
What are the benefits of using an Evra Patch?
EVRA is a combined hormonal contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy. Its transdermal patch form delivers two active substances, norelgestromin and ethinyl oestradiol, which work together to regulate the menstrual cycle and inhibit ovulation. By adhering to the skin, the patch provides a convenient and consistent method for hormone absorption. It is important to use EVRA as directed by a healthcare professional to ensure its effectiveness as a contraceptive measure.
Where do I put the Evra patch?
The most asked question about the Evra Patch is where to put it. Simply put, the patch can be placed anywhere on your body as long as the skin is clean, dry, and not too hairy. But it’s not advised to put the patch on sore or irritated skin, an area that might get rubbed by tight clothing (like underneath the bra strap), or the breasts.
Try to change the position of each patch on the skin to avoid the potential of irritating the skin.
What are the side effects of the contraceptive patch?
The good news is most people don’t get side effects, but those who do may experience:
Headaches
Nausea
Breast tenderness
Mild skin irritation where the patch is applied
There is a small, increased risk of blood clots, which is slightly higher than with some other types of contraception.
If you’re ever worried about side effects, or just want to check something, send us a message through your Account. Full details are in the patient information leaflet.
Contraception medicines
Desogestrel Tablets
75mcg84 tablets - £15
168 tablets - £25
336 tablets - £45
Cerazette Tablets
75mcg84 tablets - £19
168 tablets - £35
336 tablets - £60
Microgynon Tablets
30mcg/150mcg63 tablets - £15
126 tablets - £25
Yasmin Tablets
0.03/3g63 tablets - £26
126 tablets - £45
189 tablets - £80
Effective for treatment of acne
Evra Patches
33.9/209mcg9 tablets - £30
18 tablets - £55
36 tablets - £100
Rigevidon Tablets
30/150mcg21 tablets - £14
42 tablets - £25
126 tablets - £35
NuvaRing
2.7/11.7mg3 rings - £40
