Expert: Norman Solberg - 2/14/2009

Question
I recently started birth control last Sunday. I was due for my period on
February 7th but it is a week later and it still hasn't came. I don't know if my
period is late due to the birth control or if I may be pregnant because the
week before me and my boyfriend had unprotected sex which was dumb but
that's not the point. I need to know if I may be pregnant because I get the
cramps but no period, sore breast, and nausea throughout the day. Is that
common with burt control? Sorry it's a lot to read but please answe.

Answer
Hi Destiny,
It's always a good idea to start birth control pills during a period.  That way you know you're not pregnant, plus you're less likely to have irregular bleeding the first month.  It sounds like you may be pregnant.  I'd do a pregnancy test (first morning urine).  If it's negative, and your periods are usually regular, I'd probably stop the pill and expect your period to come, then re-start.  If your period doesn't come in a week or so, do another pregnancy test.  Use another method of birth control in the meantime.  Good luck.