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Contraception - Management
Detached (partial or complete) combined contraceptive patch: what should be done?
- A partially detached combined contraceptive 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, so 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 as usual.
- 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.
- Additional contraception 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.
In depth
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