On Birth Control Patch For Several Weeks. Period Came As

Posted on Tue, 11 Dec 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : On birth control patch for several weeks. Period came as scheduled without patch removal. Has the patch been ineffective?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
If period came regularly the patch is effective.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

I understand your concern.

If you use the patch correctly, your period should be regular.

The hormones in the patch make your periods more regular.

So, in your case the patch is effective.

Only If you miss your periods, you can suspect a pregnancy and do a pregnancy test for confirmation.

Other positive side effects of the patch are to ease menstrual cramps and lighten bleeding.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (1 hour later)

Even though I haven’t removed the patch yet? I have been on the patch before and my period wouldn’t come unless the patch was removed for a day or 2 at least at the scheduled time...

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
The periods can come even though you didn't remove the patch yet.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again dear,

Yes, the periods can come even though you didn't remove the patch yet.

Actually, you don't have periods when you use the patch - you have a withdrawal bleed.

It does not always happen, but this does not mean that the patch is ineffective.

You should not be worried.

Wishing you all the best.

Take care dear,

Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T