The transdermal contraceptive patch: an updated review of the literature.

Author(s): O'Connell K, Burkman RT

Affiliation(s): Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032, USA. ko2032@columbia.edu

Publication date & source: 2007-12, Clin Obstet Gynecol., 50(4):918-26.

Publication type: Review

The transdermal contraceptive patch which contains ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin has an efficacy similar to current oral contraceptives (OCs). The major advantages include transdermal application and maintenance of adequate hormonal levels for at least 7 days. Side effects are similar to OC except for breast tenderness in the first 2 months of use and skin irritation at the application site. Although concern has been raised about a possible increased risk of venous thromboembolism, current available data comparing the patch to a norgestimate-containing OC ranges from no increase in risk to a 2.4-fold increase.