Expert: Norman Solberg - 11/7/2009

Question
I just recently switched from Microgestin to Tri-Sprintec for insurance reasons. I was on Microgestin for about 6 months, it was prescribed continually with no off week because I have painful periods. When I switched to the Tri Sprintec I finished the old birth control and imediatly started the new. My period came the first week of the new pills I am assuming because of the change in hormones. When it came time for the inactive pills of Tri Srintec I started cramping right away expecting my period any day, it never came. I am now 4 days into a new pack of bcp. I am not expecting my period now but I an still having slight backaches, vague cramping ( feels like menstrual cramps ) and at times a vague tugging or pulling feeling real low almost to my pelvis. I have taken 2 pregnancy tests both of which were neg, but I should have started my period roughly 8 days ago. FYI I did become pregnant 2 years ago while on bcp but I was also taking antibiotic, it ended in miscarriage. I missed my period then not suspecting anything took to preg tests both where neg but I actually was pregnant.  

Answer
If you were at least 2 weeks pregnant, a test should be positive if done on a first morning urine.  I don't think you're pregnant now, but that what you're feeling is from the change in hormones, just as you thought.  Sometimes when trying to avoid periods it doesn't work, and a period just seems to want to come.  In that case it's usually best to stop the pills for 4-5 days, let the period come, then re-start the pill.  That's what I think you should do now.  Hopefully you'll have a light period, and when you re-start the pills your symptoms will disappear.  If not, it may be best to get checked by your doctor to be sure there's nothing else going on.  Best wishes.