AboutMia Expertise I can answer questions about birth control methods. I am not a doctor so this should not be used in place of advice from your doctor. Rather, I can help explain anything that is unclear, and help ease your concerns. I will give you the most updated information and will answer questions without judgment.
Experience I have been working in the health field for 10 years.
Education/Credentials I have a master degree in public health with a focus on women's health.
I been on tri- cyclen low (28) for many years and it has been working fine. I just realized that for the past 11 days I have been taking my package backwards, starting at the placebo week. I have now had to placebo weeks in a row, and I am 4 days into week 3. How much would this increase my chances of pregnancy? My boyfriend and I have recently had sex without a condom but he has pulled out before ejaculation. I am now quite worried about the chance of pregnancy.
ANSWER: Hi Ashley,
If you had sex for the first 7 days on the placebo, then you were still protected. If you had sex during the 4 extra days that you were on the placebos, then there is a chance of pregnancy. I recommend calling your pharmacist for Plan B, the morning after pill. It is a high dose of birth control pills that, when taken within 5 days of unprotected sex (ideally within 72 hours), can prevent pregnancy and are very effective. After taken Plan B as directed, continue taking your tri-cyclen, starting with the first correct pill. There is a chance you will miss your next period due to change in your pill schedule and the Plan B. If that occurs, take a pregnancy test to be sure that you are not pregnant.
I hope this helps. If you have further questions let me know.
-Mia
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks Mia.
I had taken plan b by the time I received your response. I'm just wondering what the chances of pregnancy actually are. I've taken plan b, though it was within 6 days of the most distant intercourse which was the only time I had intercourse on a placebo. I was taking hormone pills for any intercourse after that, and there was never any ejaculation in me, only what would have been there from precum, which I know poses a small risk. Just wondering if its a low, moderate or high chance of pregnancy?
Answer Hi Ashley,
I just realized I misread where you were in your pill pack. I apologize.
Based on what you have said, I think the chances of pregnancy are low, although not 0, since the Plan B will not be as effective on preventing pregnancy arising from the intercourse 6 days prior. To ease your concern, I recommend taking an early pregnancy test (one that is sensitive (20 - 25 mIU), First Response and Clear Blue are two possible brands). You can take this 10 days after ovulation, so I suggest start by taking it 10 days after your most distant intercourse. If it is negative, wait a week and retake. Since the Plan B can mess up your cycle a bit, don't be too surprised if your period is late or is skipped this month. But do take a pregnancy test if that does happen to be sure.
I hope this helps. If you have further questions let me know.
