Expert: Norman Solberg - 7/2/2009

Question
I was recently switched to the ortho evra patch about 2 weeks ago. I had been feeling very sluggish and has frequent stomach aches. I took it off last sunday [june,28th] and yesterday i expirenced mild cramp with some bloody discharge[july 1st] but my cramps have worsened and i'm not due for another 1 1/2 for my period. What's going on?

Answer
Hi Kari,
If you took the patch off Sunday and didn't put another one one, that's the reason for your cramping and bloody discharge, I think.  Your period is trying to come.  If you put another patch on, I have no idea why this is happening.  If there is any chance of an STD, I would go in for an exam to figure it out.  Otherwise you might want to just wait a while and see what happens.  Sorry I can't be more helpful.