AboutDeborah Expertise I can answer questions about pregnancy symptoms, contraception, abortion, adoption,and
teen parenthood. Specifically, I can give up to date, accurate medical information, latest
studies as well as statistics pertaining to health issues surrounding pregnancy, and factors
to be considered before deciding to become a teen parent.
Experience I have answered over 3000 questions in this area on other health sites, most in the area of teen pregnancy.
Education/Credentials I have a bachelor's Degree in Biology, and am halfway through a Master's Degree, also in Biology. I have access to and read many of the top medical journals, from which I also get the best, most thorough and accurate to answers to pressing medical and health related questions.
Past/Present Clients ehealth over 3000 posts
pro-choice talk over 6000 posts
Question Hi Deborah
Around 3 weeks ago I missed one active BCP, then remebered to take it about 22 hours late. I carried on taking the pills as usual from then, but had intercourse 2 days later. I foolishly forgot to mention that we needed to use a condom, but remembered halfway through the act and my partner politely discontinued his penetration without ejaculating. 2 days later, I reached the end of the active pills (around 4 days after I'd missed a pill), and I skipped the inactive pills in order to have 7 days in a row of active pills like my instructions suggest. I've just started my inactive pills week after the full 21 active pills (4th inactive pill tonight) and am expecting a withdrawal bleed tomorrow or the next day. Am I right to assume that if I get this bleed, I am not pregnant? I've heard that women can sometimes spot early in pregnancy, but that this is unlikely. What do you think?
Answer Dear Alex,
Yes, you are right to assume that if you get this bleed, that you are not pregnant. One of the reasons the scientists who designed the pill included the 7 days of inactive pills was so women would have a "bleed", and be able to know that they weren't pregnant.
You are also correct about some women spotting, and that it is unlikely. If you do get the spotting, it will be much lighter than your usual bleeds.
You could always take a home pregnancy test to put your mind at ease. Enough time has passed since the date of sexual activity for the test to be accurate.
