Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Transdermal Contraceptive

A transdermal patch that delivers contraceptive hormones through the skin to prevent ovulation and pregnancy.

A transdermal patch that delivers contraceptive hormones through the skin to prevent ovulation and pregnancy. Used for Prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive age.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

The patch releases a combination of ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin (or similar progestin) through the skin into systemic circulation. These hormones suppress the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge needed for ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to prevent sperm penetration. The transdermal route provides steady hormone levels over a weekly application cycle, avoiding first-pass hepatic metabolism.

Approved indications

• Prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive age

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Headache
• Application site reaction
• Breakthrough bleeding

Key clinical trials

• Study to Evaluate Contraceptive Efficacy and Safety of a Progestin Only Patch in Women of Childbearing Potential (PHASE3)
• Exploring the Modulatory Role of Sex Hormones Along the Neuromechanical Axis in Females
• Investigating Ovulation Inhibition for Use as a Contraceptive (PHASE2)
• Role of Estrogen on Skeletal Outcomes in FHA (PHASE2)
• Transdermal Ethinyl Estradiol and Norelgestromin for Irregular Bleeding in Contraceptive Implant Users (PHASE2)
• Estrogen Supplementation and Bone Health in Women With CF (PHASE4)
• A Study of New Transdermal Contraceptive Patch at End of Shelf Life and Currently Marketed EVRA at the Beginning of Shelf Life in Healthy Women (PHASE1)
• Influences of Long-acting Reversible Contraceptives on Iron Status and Physiological Responses to Extreme Environments in Women

Primary sources

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