Expert: Diane Cheryl - 9/3/2009

Question
I have been on birth control pills for a year now, but have only recently become sexually active. I was on Ortho-Tri Cyclin Lo until last month, but since it was causing breakthrough bleeding, my gyno switched me to Ortho-Cept. My partner and I always use a spermicidal condom and the withdrawal method, even though I'm on the Pill. We had sex almost every day during my first week of taking Ortho-Cept, but as always, used those backup methods, since my gyno cautioned that the Pill might not be effective the first week. However, I have taken all but three of the green sugar pills this month, and STILL have not started my period. I have heard that a delayed or missed period is sometimes a side effect of a new pill, but I am so scared. What are the chances that I may be pregnant? The condom never broke or slipped off.

Answer
Hi Grace,

I can't really tell you what the chances are that you would be pregnant. It is true that a delayed or missed period could be a side effect but you won't know that for sure. Even if you use a condom or any kind of birth control method, none are 100% safe to prevent pregnancy.
So you will have to see if you start your period and/or develop any other pregnancy symptoms.
Also, you can find a pregnancy resource center in your area and contact them. Someone at the center can tell you when to have a free test done and also give you some advice. Go to http://www.optionline.org or call 1-800-395-HELP. Or try
http://www.heartbeatinternational.org/worldwide_directory.asp

Please email me at DCHERYL51@yahoo.com and keep me updated.

Sincerely,
Diane Cheryl