This article explains what to do if you make a mistake with your patch.
It covers the steps to take if your patch falls off or you forget to change it.
It also gives advice about when to use backup birth control.
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Adhere the patch to your back, buttocks, belly, or the outer part of your upper arm.
It’s best to use a different site on your skin every time you put on a new patch.
Patches must be changed every seven days.
The first day that you put on a new patch is your “patch change day.”
Change your patch every week for three weeks straight.
On week 4, remove your patch but go patch-free for the week.
After seven patch-free days, you will put a new patch on again.
This will be the start of a new, four-week cycle.
You will use three patches per month.
This will be your new patch change day.
Use backup birth control for one week.
When Should I Use Emergency Contraception?
The easiest option would be to use condoms for the next few days.
Is It Common for the Patch to Fall Off?
The patch should adhere to your skin while bathing, swimming, and playing sports.
A warm, humid climate also did not increase the risk of detachment.
The patch appears to stick regardless of heat, humidity, exercise, whirlpools, swimming, and bathing/showering.
Then, you go one week without it.
However, you will probably have a missed period.
However, they hold enough hormones to last for nine days, just in case.
That means you have a two-day late-window to change the patch at the beginning of week 2 or 3.
How Long Does It Take to Get Your Period After Removing the Patch?
Most people using the patch get their period during their patch-free week (week 4).
If you make a mistake and change your patch late, you may miss your period that month.
You may need to take a pregnancy test.
Any time you are late changing your patch and want to prevent pregnancy, use backup birth control.
The birth control patch is highly effective when used properly.
Nationwide Children’s.Birth control: contraceptive patch.
Planned Parenthood.How to use the birth control patch?.
Planned Parenthood.What happens if you wear a patch on your off week?.
Alberta Health.Birth control patch.
