·        Similar to the pill, it contains the same hormones found in the body

·        The Evra patch prevents pregnancy by releasing small amounts of hormones into the bloodstream through the skin

These hormones (estrogen and progesterone)

·        Stop the ovaries from releasing an egg each month

·        Cause a thickening of mucus at the cervix to make it difficult for sperm to pass through

·        Reduce the lining in the uterus, so that a period is lighter

You must visit the sexual health clinic to see a clinic nurse and doctor
For Clinic Hours Click Here

How to use the Evra patch:

·        A 1 month supply of Evra has 3 patches

·        One patch is worn for 7 days

·        On day 8, remove the old patch and apply a new one to a different area of your body. For example if the first patch was applied on a Sunday, then Sundays will always be the patch change day

·        Each week you apply a new patch until you reach week 4. Week 4 will be a patch free week and will be the week when your period will start.

·        Start a new month on your normal patch change day, the day after day 28.

How to start Evra

·        When you start, the first patch should be applied in the first 24 hours of a menstrual period

·        If a patch wasn't applied on the first day of your period, put a patch on now. This will be your patch change day and you must use a back up method of birth control for 1 week.

Where do you apply Evra?

·        The patch site should be rotated with each weekly change

·        The patch can be worn of the tummy, upper-back and upper-outer arm

·        The patch can be worn while showering, bathing, swimming and exercising

·        Check the patch daily to make sure that it is still in place

Forgot to change your patch!

·        If you are 1-2 days late in changing your patch, remove and discard the old patch and put on the new patch as soon as you remember. This will be your new patch change day. No back up method of birth control is needed.

·        If you are more than 2 days late in changing the patch, you risk becoming pregnant if you have had unprotected sex. You will need the Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP). Remove the old patch and put on a new patch from a new package of Evra. This will be your new patch change day and you must use a back up method of birth control for 1 week

·        $6.00 per month

·        99% when used correctly

Pros

Cons

·        Regular and lighter periods

·        Less cramping

·        Lower risk of certain cancers

·        Convenient

·        Must see a clinic nurse and doctor to get a prescription for the Evra patch

·        Does not protect against sexually transmitted disease

·        Possible side effects are nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, spotting, weight changes or irritation at the application site.