The contraceptive patch is a small, sticky patch that releases hormones into your body through your skin to prevent pregnancy.1
The patch works in the same way as the combined contraceptive pill, and contains the same hormones (oestrogen and progestogen). Like the pill, it prevents the release of an egg each month.1
Each patch lasts for one week. Three patches are used in a row, followed by a one-week gap without a patch.1
