Question-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
Hi, I would like to go on the birth control patch. In all the sites I have looked at it says you have to start the patch on your period. Can you start it anytime? If you do start the patch on the first day of your period does the bleeding stop or continue as normal for that cycle? THanks!
Answer -
I recommend that you start on the first day of your period. If you do that you are protected from pregnancy from the first day. The bleeding might be shortened, but it's generally like a normal menstrual bleeding.
Celine
Hi, Thanks for getting back to me so quickly.The reason I would like to start the patch other than when I am on my period is that I would like to change the day I start on. I have an event coming up that I dont want to be on my period at the same time. If I were to start the patch the week after my period then would it change? How long would it take to be protected from pregnancy if I were to go that route? Thanks!
AnswerI suggest that you start the patch on the first day of menstruation and skip the patch free week, sticking on a new patch instead. By doing this you will not get your period. As far as I know it is not recommended starting the patch any day as this does not protect you from pregnancy.
If you nevertheless chose to start the patch any day you are not protected from pregnancy for at least the first week, and you will not get your period when expected.
Good luck!
Celine
