The contraceptive patch is not suitable for everyone. If you are thinking of using it, your GP or nurse will need to ask you about your health and your family’s medical history to make sure the patch is suitable for you.
It is very important to tell them about any illnesses or operations you have had, or medications you are currently taking.
Who may not be able to use it?
Conditions and circumstances that may mean you should not use the patch include:
- you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
- you are breastfeeding
- you smoke and are over 35 years of age
- you are 35 or over and stopped smoking less than a year ago
- you are very overweight
- you take certain medicines, such as antibiotics, St John’s Wort or medicines used to treat epilepsy, TB or HIV
You will also not be able to use the patch if you have (or have had) any of the following conditions:
- thrombosis (blood clots) in a vein or artery
- a heart problem or disease affecting your blood circulatory system (including high blood pressure)
- migraines
- breast cancer
- disease of the liver or gall bladder
- diabetes with complications, or diabetes for more than 20 years
For more information on the possible side effects of the contraceptive patch, see Contraceptive patch - risks.
