Contraceptive Patch in Singapore
Contraceptive patch, also known as birth control patch, is available by prescription only. Consultation with a medical doctor ensures that this contraception method is safe and effective for you in terms of preventing pregnancy. Here’s how you can get it:
- Book an online or in-clinic consultation with our licensed doctor
- If appropriate, doctor will prescribe you with contraceptive or birth control patch, also popular by its brand name: Evra Patch
- Receive the patch. You can choose a discreet home delivery or self-collection at our clinic
- Use as instructed. Apply the patch and replace every 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks, then rest for 1 week
For first-time contraception patients, we strongly recommend getting the prescription in-clinic, where we can check your blood pressure and BMI to ensure the method is suitable for you.
The contraceptive patch is a small, sticky patch you wear on the skin for pregnancy prevention. It’s easy to use and just as effective as birth control pills, making it a convenient choice if you’re new to birth control.
Like birth control pills, the patch contains oestrogen and progestin hormones. These hormones help prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation.
You must apply the patch on a clean, dry area of skin and wear it continuously. You’ll need to replace it once a week for three consecutive weeks, then take a break during the fourth week to allow for menstruation.
Beyond its convenience, the contraceptive patch is also highly effective in preventing pregnancy.
With the right and consistent use, it can reach up to 99% effective in pregnancy prevention.
Many women also find it to be more effective than birth control pills, as they’re less likely to forget applying and changing the patch weekly.
In addition to pregnancy prevention, contraceptive patch can also be prescribed to relieve hormonal issues, such as:
- Hormonal acne
- Irregular periods
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
- Menorrhagia (heavy and prolonged periods)
Pros vs Cons
Thinking about using the contraceptive patch? Let’s explore the pros and cons together.
Pros
- Convenience and ease of use
- Provides consistent hormone delivery
- May improve acne
- May reduce period cramps
- May improve menstrual cycle
- May lower risks of certain cancer
Cons
- Visibly noticeable
- May cause skin irritation
- Carries rare risks of blood clots, especially for women who smoke and are over 35, have a high BMI, or a history of blood clotting
- Doesn’t provide protection against STIs
The contraceptive patch is considered safe for most sexually active women seeking short-term birth control. It’s as effective as birth control pills and offers greater convenience, especially for first time users.
However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Your healthcare provider will check for the following conditions before prescribing it:
- High blood pressure
- History of stroke
- Migraines with aura
- Hormonal-related cancers
- History of blood clotting disorder
- Liver disease
- Breastfeeding mothers
- Smoking habit
Like other forms of birth control, the patch may come with a few mild side effects, including:
- Skin irritation
- Nausea
- Mood swings
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Bloating
- Spotting
These common side effects are usually temporary. Your body will gradually adjust and adapt to the hormones, and most symptoms tend to ease within 2 – 3 months of use.
How Much Does the Birth Control Patch Cost?
The price of the birth control patch varies depending on the provider. There may also be additional charges, such as consultation fee or a delivery fee if you choose to have it sent to your home.
Getting Pregnant After the Contraceptive Patch
Fertility typically returns right after stopping the contraceptive patch. However, getting pregnant isn’t always guaranteed. Many factors like lifestyle, underlying health conditions, and age can affect your chances of getting pregnant.
FAQ
Can I get the patch without seeing a doctor?
A consultation with a doctor is required to get the contraceptive patch. Your doctor will assess your conditions before prescribing it. This procedure ensures that the patch is a safe and effective birth control for you.
What if the patch falls off?
Don’t worry. It happens sometimes. What you can do next depends on how long the patch has been off:
- If it’s been less than 24 hours and the patch is still sticky: Just reapply it immediately.
- If it’s been more than 24 hours or the patch won’t stick anymore: Apply a new patch and consider that day as your new “patch change” day. Use condoms for the next 7 days as extra protection to prevent pregnancy.
Can it be worn during all activities?
Yes. The patch should be worn at all times, including while showering, swimming, or exercising. With the right use—applying it on a clean, dry area with minimal friction—it will stay firmly in place, even when exposed to water or sweat.
Can the patch move from its place?
Yes, the patch may migrate in some cases. To help prevent this, apply it to a clean, dry area with minimal friction. If it does become loose or falls off in less than 24 hours, reapply it right away. If it’s been longer than 24 hours or won’t stick, put on a new patch and use condoms for the next 7 days as backup protection.
What happens during patch-free week?
During the patch-free week, you will be having a withdrawal bleeding, similar to a period. This happens because the hormone levels drop when you stop using the patch, causing the lining of the uterus to shed