Expert: Diane Cheryl - 4/22/2011

Question
Hello,
I recently switched birth control pills because of negative side effects I was getting on the old brand (i.e. breakthrough bleeding). My doctor didn't tell me how to switch so I just got the new pill pack and switched in the middle of the month. I did not use any backup protection during the first 7 days as I didn't know this was necessary. I'm now worried about pregnancy but I'm not sure when I can test. The inactive pills start 5 days from now so can I test for pregnancy at that time? I've been having lots of pregnancy symptoms such as: extremely sore and swollen breasts that are very sensitive even when water hits them in the shower, lower abdominal and back pains/cramps, constipation, cold-like symptoms, extreme emotion like I feel like I'm going to cry all of the time.  Could these be pregnancy symptoms? Or just side effects of switching pills incorrectly?

Thanks so much!
-Alina-

Answer
Dear Alina,

That was probably not the best thing to switch in mid cycle. I don't usually recommend birth control pills or any kind of hormonal birth control method because of side effects and risks? How do you know if the new pill is causing any side effects? But your symptoms do sound like they could be pregnancy symptoms but I can't diagnose over the internet. You can contact optionline at http://www.optionline.org or call 1-800-395-HELP to find a pregnancy resource center in your area. Contact them and find out when you could test as they are professionals. So if you are pregnant, it won't be a problem? Write back or contact me at CHERYL51@aol.com Hope to hear from you soon.

Diane Cheryl