Ortho Evra happens to be the latest contraceptive skin patch that is used for the prevention of pregnancy. It is an innovative concept as a combination hormonal contraceptive and does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases. In terms of application you will have to go according to your doctor's or health provider's advice and know whether back-up contraception is needed temporarily. The patch can be placed on the buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm, or upper torso in a place where it won't be rubbed by tight clothing but never put it on the breasts.

For your benefit, if any patch causes irritation, it can be removed and a new patch may be applied to a new location until the next 'Patch Change Day'. But be aware of the risks that are associated with using Ortho Evra. It can be highly dangerous if you smoke, have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, have or have had clotting disorders, heart attack and stroke, cancer of the breast or reproductive organs, jaundice. Well, as a woman if you weigh more than 198 lbs. (90 kg) Ortho Evra may be less effective but have a talk with your doctor. Again, Ortho Evra is in the FDA pregnancy category X which does cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Therefore never use this medication if you are pregnant, since it can affect milk flow harming the milk composition. Again if you are breast feeding your infant, talk with the doctor first.  

It is advised to use the patch according to the prescription. However, if you miss the dose or forget to change your patch there are great chances of becoming pregnant, jeopardizing your sexual life. If it ever happens, contact the doctor at the earliest. But there are also ortho evra side effects including breast tenderness and enlargement, headache, menstrual changes and vaginal discharge. Lastly be candid while talking with your doctor and inform him of any side effects but don't use the drug for any condition except the prescription. Remember, this drug has been prescribed specifically for you; do not give it to others who may want birth control.