Norelgestromin patch (Xulane): birth control you change weekly
Xulane is a contraceptive patch you wear on your skin. It releases norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol to prevent pregnancy. Change it weekly for three weeks, skip the fourth week.
How Xulane works
Xulane is a contraceptive patch containing norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol. You stick it on your skin where it releases hormones into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy.
How to use it
You apply a new patch every seven days for three weeks in a row. In the fourth week, you don't wear a patch. This break triggers bleeding similar to a period.
You can wear the patch on your upper outer arm, abdomen, upper torso (front or back, but not the breast), or thigh. Rotate placement each week to reduce skin irritation.
Effectiveness
When used correctly, Xulane is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Real-world effectiveness is around 91% because people sometimes miss applications or don't apply it correctly.
Side effects
Common side effects include:
- Breast tenderness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Skin irritation at the patch site
- Changes in mood or libido
Serious side effects are rare but include blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. These risks are higher if you smoke, are over 35, or have a history of blood clots.
Things to know
The patch may be less effective if you weigh over 198 pounds. It doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections. You need a prescription from a doctor or nurse practitioner.
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