Birth control 101: What is the patch?

If you're exploring birth control options, hormonal patches are a great option if you’re looking for a discreet, effective, and convenient way to prevent pregnancy. Whether you're new to the world of contraception or just curious about different methods, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the patch.

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Did you know Hey Jane offers over 100+ birth control options? This includes hormonal patches, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your body and lifestyle. Fill out our quick online intake form to get compassionate and personalized recommendations from our clinicians without having to leave home.

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How does the patch work?

The birth control patch is a small, sticky patch that you stick directly onto your skin like a sticker, typically under the brand name Xulane or Twirla. It's typically applied to areas like your stomach, buttocks, upper back, or upper arm. Once stuck onto your skin, you leave it for a week before replacing it with a new match. If you want to get a period, do this for three weeks and make the fourth week patch-free. You’ll need a prescription from your health care provider to get the patch.

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But how exactly does this hormonal patch work its magic? The patch releases a steady stream of hormones—estrogen and progestin—into your body. These hormones prevent ovulation (when your ovaries release an egg) and thicken cervical mucus (the barrier between your vagina and uterus where a pregnancy develops), making it harder for sperm to reach an egg. The result? No egg, no fertilization, and, of course, no pregnancy.

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So, what’s the hype with this patch? Many people love the patch for its ease of use. It’s a "set it and forget it" method that doesn’t require daily attention, making it a popular choice among birth control users.

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The patch works on a four-week cycle, which looks like this:

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Benefits of the birth control patch

The patch isn’t just effective—it’s packed with perks. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits compared to other birth control options:

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Side effects of the birth control patch

Like all medications, the patch can come with some undesirable side effects. Here’s a quick look at what you might experience:

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Good news: These side effects should go away as your body adjusts to the hormones. But if they persist, it’s probably worth discussing alternative birth control with your health care provider. 

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The patch is pretty painless to remove, kind of like a sticker. However, some people prefer to shave the spot they plan to place to patch on ahead of time so that when it's removed, it causes less tension.

Is the patch right for me?

Picking the right birth control method is a personal decision that depends on your lifestyle, health, and preferences. The patch is a good method for people who want the benefits of estrogen but cannot take or absorb birth control pills (like if they are on GLP modulators like Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy or have had some types of gastric bypass)

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However, if you have certain health conditions, such as a history of blood clots, sensitivity to estrogen, or liver disease, your provider might recommend another form of contraception. Additionally, if you weigh over 198 pounds, the patch may have a higher failure rate and you might want to use a backup method.

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The patch vs. the pill

Let’s compare the patch to another popular contraceptive, the pill:

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The patch vs. the IUD

Here’s a comparison of the patch against an IUD:

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How to get the birth control patch

Getting the patch is easier than ever. Start by consulting with a health care provider to ensure it’s the right method for you. Many providers, including Hey Jane, offer virtual consultations, making getting a prescription without leaving your home simple. Once prescribed, you can pick up your patches at a local pharmacy or have them delivered straight to your door.

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If you’re ready to explore the patch or any other birth control options, Hey Jane’s got you covered with expert guidance and convenient access to contraception because taking care of your reproductive health should be as seamless as possible.