Ortho Evra is the patch birth control. I started using it January 29, 2003 and look forward to not needing to remember to take the pill every night.
The patch needs to be changed every week, then don't wear a patch during the 4th week so you get your period. It sounds simple enough. You can place the patch on your buttock, abdomen, upper arm, upper back, or upper chest (but not on breasts). I chose upper back because I figured that was the least likely place for it to be seen.
Update: I find the patch to be a little irritating. The area under the patch often itches and the edges seem to get dirty quickly. Also, after removing a patch, the area stayed slightly discolored for a few days.
I've worn my first two patches on my shoulder blades. I plan to change the location to my buttock this week and see if that helps.
I switched my third patch to my buttock and am happy to report that I can now forget that it is there. No itching or irratation.
written on January 30, 2003; modified on February 17, 2003.