Chapter 6

CHAPTER 6 - Combined Patch: Only the Essentials

Key Points for Providers and Clients
  • A woman wears a small adhesive patch on her body at all times, day and night. A new patch is put on each week for 3 weeks, and then no patch for the fourth week.
  • Replace each patch on time for greatest effectiveness.
  • Bleeding changes are common but not harmful. Typically, irregular bleeding for the first few months and then lighter and more regular bleeding.

What Is the Combined Patch?

  • A small, thin, square of flexible plastic worn on the body.
  • Continuously releases 2 hormones—a progestin and an estrogen, like the natural hormones progesterone and estrogen in a woman’s body—directly through the skin into the bloodstream.
  • The woman puts on a new patch every week for 3 weeks, then no patch for the fourth week. During this fourth week the woman will have monthly bleeding.
  • Also called Ortho Evra and Evra.
  • Works primarily by preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries (ovulation).