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2 questions about the contraceptive patch

Former MemberFormer Member Posts: 1,876,323 The Mix Honorary Guru
in Health & Wellbeing
1) in the instructions it says if the patch becomes loose NOT to stick it down with something like a plaster - why is this? because ive done it a few times and found if i didnt, the bit that was loose got covered in fluff off my jeans/underwear and peeled up more.

2) If the edge of the patch lifts by a few mm, does this affect the hormones goin in, making it less effective?

thank you
L+C

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    Former MemberFormer Member Posts: 1,876,323 The Mix Honorary Guru
    I thought it says if the patch won't stay stuck don't restick it on with plaster. If it's still sticking then I think holding the edge down to stop it getting further unstuck is ok, but I'd double check with a professional.

    I suspect it's all to do with the transmission of the hormone through the skin, it only works when it's stuck with it's own glue.
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    Former MemberFormer Member Posts: 1,876,323 The Mix Honorary Guru
    I used to use them, if it becomes loose and you're genuinely concerned, I think it says to put another one on asap, it may just put your period back a day or so from when usual. Trying to hold it down won't let the chemicals get in properly I don't think.
    As for fluff on the patch, unfortunately, as crappy as it looks, thers nothing you can do about that aside from try wearing it somewhere else, like the top of your back where you're less likely for it to rub on clothes.
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    Former MemberFormer Member Posts: 1,876,323 The Mix Honorary Guru
    Janjan is spot on.

    Found these... they might be of help



    3 What should I do if a patch seems loose, partially lifts off of my skin, or falls off?
    Do not try to reapply a birth control patch if it is no longer sticky; if it has been stuck to itself or another surface; if it has other material stuck to it; or if it has become loose or has fallen off before.

    For less than 24 hours: Try to reapply your patch or apply a new patch immediately. No backup contraception is needed and your "Patch Change Day" will remain the same.

    For more than 24 hours, or if you are not sure for how long: Start a new
    4-week cycle immediately by applying a new patch. You now have a new Day 1 and a new "Patch Change Day". You must use backup contraception, such as a condom, spermicide or a diaphragm, for the first week of your new cycle because you may become pregnant during this time.

    Re-apply the Patch by following these instructions:
    Press down firmly on the Patch with the palm of your hand for 10 seconds, making sure that the edges stick well. Then run your fingers around the edge of the patch. Do not use tapes or wraps to keep the birth control patch in place.
    If the birth control Patch does not stick well, remove it and then apply a replacement birth control Patch. This Patch should be replaced on the original "Patch Change Day." Single replacement patches are available through your pharmacist.
    http://www.orthoevra.com/html/pevr/faq.jsp;jsessionid=ZLCHANCH2UYRSCQPCCFTC0YKB2IIQNSC?host=www.orthoevra.com#three

    Several other sites also state the same, that if the patch has become loose, stuck to itself or any of that then to apply a new one immediatly.
    https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR500351
    http://www.drugs.com/ortho_evra.html
    http://www.wellesley.edu/Health/ortho.html
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