Expert: Diane Cheryl - 8/3/2007

Question
I have been on a low dose of birth control for four months now. This past month I'll admit I haven't been great about taking my pills on time, I missed the last pill in my last pack and the first two in this months pack. I never made them up. I took a few other ones more than 12 hours late and missed a few here and there for the rest of the pack. I understand missing pills can cause break through bleeding, but I haven't had it so far. I've had unprotected sex all month, no form of backup at all. Monday was a week before my next period is due. That morning there was pinkish brown discharge when I went to the bathroom. And that was it all day long. On Tues, Wed and today I have woken up with cramps in my stomach and lower abdominal, but I don't usually get cramps like that at any time during my cycle. Also in the morning there was more blood, mostly brown with occasional light red, and only spotting, nothing like when I have my period. Then for the rest of the day it is pinkish brown discharge. I've been getting nauseous, light headed, and my breasts are swollen and very tender. By seven at night I am out of energy, and I have to pee a lot more then normal. I'm afraid I might be pregnant. Am I over reacting? I need some answers I'm not even 17 yet.

Answer
Hi Britt,

Thanks for your question. I'm not a medical professional so I suggest you consult your physician. From what you're saying, it's possible that you could be pregnant. I would advise you to go to http://www.optionline.org to find a free pregnancy testing center in your area. You could also join the yahoo group for some advise from others http://groups.yahoo.com/group/pregnant_teen_support/ or http://groups.yahoo.com/group/unplanned_pregnancy_help/
Please also email me at DCHERYL51@yahoo.com

Sincerely,
Diane Cheryl