Yes, you should count the "off" week when you are figuring up how long you have been on the patch.
Patch birth control means using a small patch that sticks to one's skin in order to prevent one from becoming pregnant. It is similar in size to a nicotine patch.
If you want to get pregnant, you should stop using the birth control patch altogether.
In the US, the birth control patch is by prescription only, so consultation is required before starting to use the patch.
If you get your period while wearing the birth control patch, continue using the patch as scheduled. If this becomes a problematic pattern for you, contact your health care provider.
There is no advantage to using the birth control patch and birth control pill at the same time. They have the same mode of action. If you want to double up on methods, try using a barrier method like condoms along with a hormonal method.
Yes, if you stop using the patch as directed, you could get pregnant.
The birth control patch is designed to prevent pregnancy. If you want to get pregnant, stop using the patch.
If you put on the birth control patch while ovulating, you will likely still ovulate. Your next period may be later than expected. You will have pregnancy protection after you use the patch correctly for seven days.
If you bleed when the patch is on, continue using the patch as scheduled. Contact your health care provider if this becomes an ongoing problem.
If you get your period while on birth control, you should continue using your birth control as scheduled. Bleeding does not change the schedule for taking your pill or changing your patch or ring.
The birth control patch fist came out in the early 1990's and has only reached 8% use among the birth control using population. It is however, rising in popularity but is losing ground the internal and hormonal methods of birth control.
The birth control patch is designed to prevent pregnancy. If you want to get pregnant, stop using the patch.