Expert: Diane Cheryl - 10/28/2006

Question
I have been on Ortho Tri-Cyclen for two months. The first day of my last menstrual was on Oct. 8th and lasted until Oct. 12. I was supposed to start my third pack of pills on Oct. 13th but I didn't have any money to buy them. I was able to purchase them on Oct. 16th and and immediately began taking them. On Oct. 20th I had intercourse (which was day 5 of my pill pack).

On around Oct 24th or 25th my nipples were kinda sensitive. Whenever my boyfriend pressed on them or pinched them they would hurt. It lasted a few days but feel soooooo much better now. I also had swollen breasts but nothing too serious. I also have had thick white discharge that varies between what I just said and clear.

Is this possibly my body trying to adjust to this off set of hormones since I started my pill pack 3 days late, it through off my cycle? I've read online that it is way too soon to experience breast tenderness related to pregnancy before a late menses. Could my hormones just be going haywire?

Additional Details:

I normally, since being on the pill, get my menstrual around day 24 or 25 of my pill pack and start the new pack the day after the end of my menstrual (which lasts 5 days).

I am still taking the pills. I figure if I stop taking them and the symptoms decrease or end then I woud know if the pills are causing my symptoms. What do you think?

Answer
Hi Bella,
First of all I need to advise you to consult your physician about your question. I have done a lot of research about the birth control pill but am not a medical doctor. I think you might be right about your body trying to adjust but I can't diagnosis this by email. Hormones are unpredictable and are not natural for our bodies. You could stop taking the pill to see if your theory is correct but I suggest you ask your physician about this. Is there a possibility that you could pick another method? However, the only methods that I think are healthy are condoms (which are not very effective) and Natural Family planning. Also, you could choose abstinence.
Please email me at DCHERYL51@yahoo.com if you have any other questions. Also, I would like to know what you find out.
Oh, and if you want to find a free pregnancy center in your area or get more information, check out this website http://www.optionline.org
Sincerely,
Diane Cheryl
DCHERYL51@yahoo.com