norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol

What is this medication? This medication is a combination of two hormones, a progestin called norelgestromin and an estrogen called ethinyl estradiol. It is primarily used as a form of female birth control to prevent pregnancy. Most commonly administered as a transdermal patch that is applied to the skin once a week, it works by releasing a steady flow of these hormones directly into the bloodstream through the skin.

The hormones in this medication prevent pregnancy through several different mechanisms. They primarily work by stopping the process of ovulation, which means the ovaries do not release an egg for fertilization. Additionally, the medication thickens the mucus in the cervix to make it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg and alters the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilized egg from attaching. It is important to note that this medication does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.