Your questions
We've collected together the most frequently asked questions about contraception, to ensure that you can find the right contraception for you.
The patch is designed to adhere to the skin for a week, but if it does become detached you need to replace it as soon as possible as it will become ineffective as birth control if more than 24 hours pass. If more than 24 hours have passed between the patch falling off and it being replaced, then additional birth control will be required for one week.
The patch is very adhesive and rarely comes off. You can go in the shower, swim and exercise whilst wearing it. The patch should be applied to clean, dry skin and you should avoid using any creams or lotions near a patch you're already wearing to ensure it sticks as well as possible.
The patch works by releasing the hormones oestrogen and progestogen into the bloodstream. The patch needs to be changed on the same day each week (the patch change day) with the fourth week being patch-free, which is when a period will occur. The patches need to be changed to ensure the right amount of hormones are released into the bloodstream, each patch can only release a certain amount. If you forget to change the patch for one or two days past the patch change day, remove the patch when you remember and apply a new patch. You will still change this patch on your next patch change day and you are still protected against pregnancy. If you are more than two days late changing the patch, you start a new four-week cycle with the new patch.
If you forget to take off your patch at the start of the patch free week, take it off when you remember and start the next cycle at the usual time. Your period may be shorter, or you may still be bleeding when you put on the next patch.
No, it may actually help to change the location a bit each week. The patch can be worn on the buttocks, stomach, back or upper arms, it must not be worn on the breasts.
You cannot see any change in the patch, or feel it working, but it is continuously releasing the hormones oestrogen and progestogen into the bloodstream. You just need to ensure you change the patch each week for three weeks, and remember to start the next cycle of patches after the fourth patch free week.