·	Once-weekly patch applications eliminate the need to think about birth control on a daily basis.

·	Provides regular menstrual periods.

·	Easily reversible - ovulation usually returns quickly when a woman stops wearing the patch; however, women who have irregular menstrual cycles do occasionally experience a delay in the return of menses.

·	Side effects diminish quickly when use of the patch is discontinued.

·	Reduces chances of ovarian cysts and tubal pregnancy.

·	Changes in the cervical mucus help decrease the risk of pelvic inflammatory infections.

·	OrthoEvra™ Contraceptive Patches are not recommended for those weighing 198 pounds or more because contraceptive effectiveness may be decreased.

·	The patch may be worn on the buttock, abdomen, back/shoulder area, or the outside of the upper arm. It should not be worn on the front shoulder/breast areas. It may be visible to others when bathing or changing clothes.

·	The patch offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV. Condoms offer protection against STI's. Condoms can be used in combination with the patch.

·	People with allergic reactions to other types of adhesives or tape may develop a rash with the patch.

·	Bathing, showering, swimming, exercise, perspiration, hot tubs, etc. should not affect the patch; however, it is a good idea to check the patch daily to make sure it is in place and is sticking well.

·	Vomiting and diarrhea should not interfere with the effectiveness of the patch.

·	Always inform your health care providers that you are using the patch. It is a medication just like any pills you may take.

·	Since 1960, when birth control pills first became available, important information about pills and cancer has been learned.

·	Pills reduce the risk of ovarian cancer: three years of use reduces the risk of ovarian cancer by 40%; ten years of use reduces the risk by 80%.

·	Pills reduce the risk for endometrial (uterine lining) cancer.

·	Most studies suggest that pills neither reduce nor increase the risk for breast cancer. Research continues to evaluate this. Women are encouraged to do monthly self-breast exams and have yearly exams by a health care provider.

·	Some studies indicate an increased incidence of cervical cancer. However, this may be more related to factors such as numbers of sexual partners, STI exposure, etc., than to birth control pill use. Annual pap smears provide the best screening for cervical cancer.

·	The patch may be applied to healthy skin on the buttocks, abdomen, back/shoulder area or the upper outer arm. It should not be worn on the front shoulder or breast area.

·	Avoid areas that are rubbed by tight clothing.

·	Each new patch should be placed in a different location (example: if current patch is on the right buttock, place the next patch on the left buttock).

·	Apply a patch once a week, on the same day each week (your Patch Change Day) for three weeks. Remove the old patch each week.

·	Remove the patch at the beginning of week four and do not re-apply. Your period will come this week.

·	Apply a new patch seven days after removing the last patch even if you are still having your period. Repeat the same application schedule monthly.

·	Do not use any creams, oils or lotion on the skin prior to applying a new patch. The skin must be clean, dry and without redness or irritation.

·	The patch comes in a sealed foil pouch. There is a clear plastic film covering the adhesive surface. Tear open the foil pouch and carefully peel the patch and plastic covering off the foil liner.

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When applying the patch, remove half of the clear plastic covering the adhesive surface. Avoid touching the sticky surface with your fingers. Press the patch onto the skin, and then peel the remainder of the plastic away, smoothing the patch onto the skin. Pressing firmly, move the finger over the entire surface of the patch for 10-15 seconds to be sure it is well adhered.

·	First day start: Apply a patch on the first day of your menstrual period. No backup birth control method is needed.

·	Sunday start: Apply a patch on the first Sunday after your period starts. You must continue to use a condom for the first seven days of the first patch cycle. Thereafter, assuming that the patch application instructions are followed, the contraceptive protection is continuous.

·	Replacement patches may be available. If you need a replacement patch, check with the pharmacy or your provider. Come to Women’s Health Walk-in 10:30-11:30 a.m. or 1:00-2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

·	If the patch edges are lifting up press firmly for 10 to 15 seconds. If it will not stick well you may need to replace the patch. Your Patch Change Day will remain the same. Do not apply tape over the top of the patch.

·	At the start of any patch cycle: Apply the patch as soon as you remember. You need to use an additional form of birth control for ONE WEEK. This is your new Patch Change Day.

·	In week two or three: 24-48 hours late: Apply a new patch as soon as you remember. No back-up birth control method is needed. The Patch Change Day remains the same.

·	In week two or three: more than 48 hours late: Apply a new patch as soon as you remember. This will be your new four-week cycle start. Use a backup form of birth control for ONE WEEK.

·	In week four of the cycle: Remove the patch as soon as you remember. Re-apply a patch on your regular Patch Change Day. No additional method of birth control is needed.