Immersion & patch

Due to bleeding problems, I have been on the pill. As I keep forgetting it at night and have to double up, I have had mid cycle bleeding, not helping the situation. The MD gave me a rx for the "patch", however the pharmacy told me it goes on on day 8 and gets changed weekly. It can not come off so I have to decide whether to put it on so I can change it after I dip, which means placing it on earlier than day 8. or putting it on day 12, which also may not be good on a regular basis. Can I wear it when I dip?

Dear questioner,

Thank you for your question.

The patch, along with any remaining glue, needs to be removed for immersion. It should be reapplied after immersion. There is a difference of opinion among doctors as to whether the same patch can be replaced. Some doctors feel that a patch is still effective as long as it sticks unaided. Others feel that a new patch should be used - this slightly increases the cost (you use 4 per month instead of 3). If this does not work for you, you could also ask about Nuvaring, which is left in place for 3 weeks. It can be removed at the mikveh and the same one replaced.

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