A contraceptive patch has been developed which can be applied to the thighs, buttocks or abdomen (except for the breast) and releases hormones through the skin into the blood. One patch prevents pregnancy for 7 days. After one week of use it should be removed and a new one should be replaced on a different part of the body. Three (3) consecutive patches should be followed by a patch-free week during which a withdrawal bleeding occurs
The contraceptive patch has similar efficacy and safety to that of OCs. Its once weekly dosing regimen appears to enhance the likelihood of successful use across all age groups. Side effects are similar to those reported with OCs, with the obvious exception of application site reactions. Two particularly appealing features of the contraceptive patch are that it has excellent adhesion, allowing women to continue with daily activities such as swimming, bathing, and exercising; and that it can be worn on several different areas of the body.