Expert: Pat G - 6/16/2009

Question
my boyfriend and I stupidly had unprotected sex on the first day of my period
last Saturday ( June 6th 2009) I am on the pill and haven't missed a day yet
but I am extremely nervous that I am pregnant because the end of my period
was a brown color and now it is Monday and I am still having a light brown
spotting when I wipe. Also it might be my mind tricking me but my boobs feel
bigger and the area around my nipples seem darker..I am 18 years old and
going to college next year and I know it wasn't smart of us but I can't do
anything now.. basically what are my chances of getting pregnant from
having sex on my period? thank you for reading my problem... : )

Answer
Hi, Chelsea,

Most women aren't fertile on the first day of their period. If the bleeding is for another reason, then fertility may be possible. If you have taken the pill faithfully, this also reduces your chances. Please be aware that the pill can stop a woman's periods. It all depends on how she reacts. The pill can also cause the other symptoms: swollen breasts, and darker nipples. One of the hormones used is one that occurs during pregnancy. But please be aware that if you take any antibiotics, pills are not effective.

Usually, a woman ovulates 14 days before the onset of her period.

If you got your period on June 6th, you have been experiencing it for over a week. It's the 16th.

I am glad you are aware you had unprotected sex. Too many women rely on condoms, and condoms don't work. But you really should ask why you are taking these kinds of chances. Sex is for making babies. And it complicates a woman's relationships. Your boyfriend really ought to be protecting you, but instead, he is gratifying himself at your expense. Maybe he means well, but I recommend you have a long talk with him.

As for your education, please know that it is possible to go to college when you have a child. I did it. I had four children when I graduated, three of them preschoolers. And you have an option I didn't have: you can take classes online.

Please give this some serious thought and think more about your future. You deserve a man who will cherish and protect you, and who will cherish your children. Is your boyfriend such a man? Would you want him to be the father of your children? Usually, the only way we women can be sure that the man is worthy of us is to see if he is willing to take advantage of us, or whether he will protect us.

Also, if you're not having sex, you don't have to take the pill, either. I know from personal experience that the pill isn't benign.

Please take care of yourself, and stay safe! And you're welcome!