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Contraception - Management
Detached (partial or complete) combined contraceptive patch: what should be done?

  • The patch is very adherent and is designed for use in the shower, bath, sauna, and hot tub, and during exercise (including swimming).
  • If the patch detaches, the recommended actions depend on how long it has been off. A partially detached patch is treated the same as one that has completely detached.
  • If the patch has been off for less than 48 hours:
    • Reapply it as quickly as possible, if it is still sticky.
    • If it is not sticky, it may not work as a contraceptive; in this case, apply a new patch. Do not use sticking plaster, tape, or bandage to hold the old patch in place.
    • No additional contraception is required.
    • Continue to use the patch as normal and change it on the normal change day.
  • If the patch has been off for 48 hours or longer, or if the time it detached is uncertain:
    • Start a whole new patch cycle by applying a new patch as soon as possible. This is now week 1 of the patch cycle. It is also the new day of the week for changing patches and for starting new patch cycles.
    • Additional contraception (e.g. condoms or abstinence) is advised for the next 7 days.
    • If unprotected sexual intercourse has taken place in the past 5 days, emergency contraception should be considered — see the CKS topic on Contraception - emergency.
Basis for recommendation
  • These recommendations are based on those of the fpa (Family Planning Association) [Belfield et al, 2006].
    • More rigorous recommendations (24 hour threshold) are made by the manufacturer of Evra® patches [ABPI Medicines Compendium, 2007a].
    • Some experts base their (different) recommendations more closely on the pharmacology and physiology of hormonal contraceptives [Guillebaud, 2007].

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