Expert: Doctor Early Options - 10/3/2009

Question
I'm from the Philippines, where abortion is illegal.. actually i'm here to ask you something...
My girlfriend is still no menstruation.
her first day of LMP is AUG 23 2009, we had coitus last sept.5 2009,
and i decided to tell my girlfriend to take an oral contraceptive pills but she started last sept 7, but last sept.28 she stop taking the pills, so total of 22 pills right? then last sept. 30 we went to OB gyne, then we tell all the story to the doctor, my girlfriend had a negative result on pregnancy test, but the doctor said, my girlfriend should take a provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate).... for 5days q12..
so my question is..... what should i do??can i use cytotec to my girlfriend now? is it safe? no life-risks?
i need your help Doctor.....

Answer
Dear Ichigo,
From what you describe, it sounds like your girlfriend is not pregnant.  A pregnancy test should turn positive about 14 days after unprotected sex, so it looks like you are fine. If you want to be 100% sure, you can check a home pregnancy test (you can probably purchase them at a pharmacy.  The most accurate tests have lines, not words.)  The most accurate way to check for pregnancy is a blood test.  

She is probably having a delayed period from starting the contraceptive pills.  This is common and normal, and nothing to worry about.  Just go ahead and start the next pack.  Wait one week before you have sex again. It is not necessary to take provera at this time, but it also will not hurt her.  The most important thing is to stay on the contraception - it is good that you helped her to get on the right medication.

I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
EarlyAbortionOptions.com
New York City