Q&A: Pregnancy

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PREGNANCY

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (see below for regular questions):

"I'm pregnant and need financial help"

We have received several questions along these lines. Here are the questions, all of which are addressed with one answer, below:

---I am 22-23 weeks along in my pregnancy and have no job, is there any way I can get financial help?

---I was told that there is a program that helps you pay for rent and other things when you are under 18 and have a child and want to live on your own. can you tell me if this is true and if it is how can I get information on this? Thank you.

---I took a test and it came out positive and I'm only 16 I want to find out some information on getting help for me and this child because I will be out of my house when my parents find out. I want to know if there is any way to get some kind of help.

---I've taken a home pregnancy test and it came back positive. I know I need to go to the doctor's, but the thing is I can't afford to. I don't live near a family planning and I was wondering if you knew of any free clinic that I could go to, to get the medical attention I need? I live in Maine if that helps.

ANSWER to above questions:

You are right that if you are pregnant, a visit with a medical provider is important for you to have as soon as possible. If you live in Maine, call our toll free number (1-877-326-2345), and you will be automatically connected to the Family Planning nearest you. Although the Family Planning might be too far for you to travel, they should be able to refer you to local resources, like the nearest Medicaid office, which is part of the Department of Human Services. At Family Planning they can tell you about local programs that help teens who are pregnant. They can also help you think more about talking to your parents and/or finding other supportive people to help you through this time.

If you can actually travel to a Family Planning office, you can make an appointment to get a pregnancy test to be sure that you are pregnant, and get a "pregnancy confirmation" paper that you would need to take with you when you sign up for Medicaid, which is health insurance that would help cover costs of important medical visits.

If you live outside of Maine, check your phone book under your state name (i.e. "Maine, State of"), and look for the Department of Human Services. Call them and they will help connect you.

We encourage you to talk to a trusted friend or family member, because a supportive person is important to have during this time. We hope you get the care you need soon.

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PREGNANCY QUESTIONS

No B/C, had sex

I was on the ring, but I got off not liking the symptoms and that was a good month ago, I have used condoms since and I have had my period since then.

About a week and three days before I had sex and noticed that my boyfriend had ejaculated in me without any contraceptives. It has now been four days since then and I have felt a little almost like cramping feeling, I have never had this happen, so my question is if my boyfriend ejaculated in my vagina enough so that when I stood up it was still leaking out and it has been four days what are my chances of pregnancy and could I go to a family planning center near me for help even if I have a gyno already?

Please help, I have mixed feelings but me and my boyfriend of five years are ready to face any consequences and get to the truth.

Yes, you can go to family planning even though you have a gyno. Yes, you can get pregnant standing up. If you used no birth control, then you are at risk for pregnancy no matter what position or where you have sex.

Take a home pregnancy test or visit your local family planning center. Good luck.

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Want to get pregnant

I'm a 41 year old woman, I have been having some vaginal dryness it makes it hard at times to have sex with my husband. We want to have children, I do have a son from a previous marriage, but I have also had a tubal pregnancy, so I have only one Fallopian tube.

Can I still get pregnant? Does having dry vaginal fluid make a difference in becoming pregnant? I also take medication for Diabetes, I'm on shots, and I also take Glucophage 500mg, and Actos 45mg, and Lipitor 20mg.

Could all these medications stop me from becoming pregnant? Is there anything I could take that would help me get pregnant? And is there a good product I can use for vaginal dryness besides the KY products?

I really want to have another baby, I have been told by one doctor that I'm in menopause and I had second doctor re-do the test, and he said I'm not in menopause. Please help, I do want another baby..thank you.

My big concern as I read your note is not your single Fallopian tube (many women have successfully had babies with only one tube and one ovary) but your diabetes. If you're currently on insulin and two oral medications for diabetes, I'm guessing that you and your doctor are working hard to get your sugar under control. Until you've got excellent control of your blood sugar, pregnancy isn't a good idea. Poorly controlled diabetes will put both you and your baby at high risk for many health problems.

As for menopause, you're not "in menopause" until you've stopped having periods for a whole year! You may be having what are called "perimenopausal changes," and that's just a fancy way of saying your body's getting closer to stopping your period.

One common perimenopausal symptom is vaginal dryness. There are many vaginal lubricants besides KY jelly. Another popular one is Astroglide, which can help with this, as can vaginal estrogen creams (you need a prescription for the estrogen creams).

It would be a great idea for you to have a visit with an obstetrician to talk about having a baby. S/he will be able to give you all the information you about diabetes, pregnancy, and fertility issues.

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Stopped Depo; trying to get pregnant

After stopping the Depo shot almost 15 months ago, I stopped having a period for almost 6 months so I went to the doctor and had a pap smear done and a chlamydia and gonorrhea test done and a pregnancy test and the pap smear was normal and the std test was negative so was the pregnancy test.

I was put on the medroxyprogesterone pill for 10 days so I could have breakthrough bleeding and then was given a pack of birth control pills to start the day my break through bleeding started. It started yesterday so I took a bc pill, and it's heavy bleeding.

I want to be able to get pregnant preferably in about 4-6 months...my question is, when should I stop the birth control pills and how long should it take me to start ovulating again so that i can try to get pregnant?

It is common for periods to be absent or irregular for up to around 18 months after stopping the Depo shot. Starting you on birth control pills will make your periods regular again, but these periods are not your own hormones at work, they are "withdrawal bleeds,"bleeding that happens when you stop taking active hormone pills and start on the placebo pill.

If you are on the pill for a couple of months, then STOP the pill, hopefully your own hormones will be back on track and you will have regular periods. We advise being off the pill with regular periods for about 3 months before you try to get pregnant. If you do not have regular periods off the pill and are frustrated, see your gyn provider to discuss this in more detail. Good Luck!

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Am I at risk?

My boyfriend and I have been sexually active for over a year now. We usually use condoms, otherwise I take an EC within the stipulated time period. Only when I'm on my periods, we don't use any form of contraception. (There are certain constrictions due to which I cannot be on regular BC pills, the ring etc.)

1. Are we being on the safe-side through the methods we use? It seems to have worked till now, but sometimes, I go paranoid till I get my next period.

2. I took a levengestrol (sp?) EC recently because the condom slipped (I was ovulating when we had sex) and now, I'm experiencing mid-cycle bleeding (not merely spotting). What does this mean? Am I out of risk of pregnancy?

3. Does frequent use of the EC (once in 2-3 months) reduce effectiveness? Are there any other side-effects I should be concerned about?

Using condoms is about 86% effective typically - this means that fourteen women out of one hundred will be pregnant in one year or 1.4 women in ten.

Using ECP is about 89% effective - this means about 11 women in a hundred will be pregnant in one year or 1.1 women in ten

Having unprotected intercourse during your period is not an effective method and could most certainly result in pregnancy as semen and viable sperm can survive inside you for days (or until you ovulate).

There are more effective forms of birth control at your disposal. Please see a provider to discuss your options. Sometimes combining several methods can increase effectiveness, for example a diaphragm and condom.

Your bleeding mid cycle is sometimes normal and sometimes not. So, another reason to have a check-up and pregnancy test with a serious discussion about how much risk of getting pregnant you are willing to take and finding a method that gives you the most protection possible.

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On pill, very moody

I'm already a mom of a 5 month old, I am breastfeeding and on the pill. I have only had 1 period since I gave birth. I took a pregnancy test 3 months after I had my baby it was negative but I feel really moody lately. Little things that happen that make me mad REALLY TICK me off and I get crazy mad! I was the same way when I was pregnant with my son. Could I just be moody because I have only had 1 period over the course of a year now or do you think it's from the mini pill I take or could I be pregnant again?

If you have taken the pill every day at the same time, it would be unlikely you are pregnant. The progestin only pill must be taken this way for maximum effectiveness. It can be normal to miss periods on this pill, but we advise a pregnancy test to make sure.

There are several reasons for moodiness such as new mom fatigue, and sometimes women feel moody on the pill. You could consider taking vitamin B complex; some women feel this helps with mood.

So, get a pregnancy test, take vitamin B complex. When you are done breastfeeding, you could switch to combined estrogen/progesteron pills. Good Luck.

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Easier to get pregnant next time?

I was wondering if it's true that once you have been pregnant it's easier to get pregnant since your body has already done it? I've been having unprotected sex with my boyfriend for 5 years and my 1st time being pregnant took that whole 5 years. I had an abortion 2 months ago but we are trying again.

It is a myth that pregnancy is easier/quicker the second or third time. If you do not become pregnant within 12 months then seek advice from a health care provider. Good luck.

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Stopped Depo and had unprotected sex

I have been off my Depo shot for 7 months now and I still have not had a period and I haven't even been on the shot long enough for me not to have a period. My last shot that I had was in February and it lasted me until May when my next shot was due.

Well they took away my medical card and I couldn't go in May to get my shot and I haven't had once since. Basically, I have only had 3 shots since I have been on Depo. Well me and my boyfriend have been having unprotected sex. We have only done it about 5 times but every morning now I feel sick to my stomach, but I never throw up. I feel sick to my stomach from the time I wake up to the time I go to bed and my breasts are also really sore lately. Could I be pregnant even though I still haven't had a period?

Yes there is that possibility of pregnancy because you have not been using any birth control since your shot ran out. You always ovulate (release an egg from your ovary) before you bleed, so you could get pregnant and miss periods because of that. It is not unusual to go without a period for a number of months coming off the Depo. The bottom line is that you should get a pregnancy test done ASAP.

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Using condoms, but have symptoms

I am a 33 year old woman. I have been sexually active with my boyfriend and I am afraid I might be pregnant even though we use condoms and he has had trouble keeping and erection during sex. I had a normal period from the 16th of Oct to the 20th and it was only after my period that I experienced swollen breasts and cramps.

These symptoms have persisted since my last period even though I only had sex with him right after my period. Is it normal to have these symptoms right after my period and not be pregnant?

It is possible to have these symptoms and not be pregnant. A pregnancy test would be positive if these symptoms are due to the hormones of pregnancy, so I would recommend you do one now. If it is negative and the symptoms persist please follow-up with a medical provider to be checked for infection, hormonal changes, or breast problems.

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BF cannot penetrate

I am a 21 yr old girl, me and my bf are into an affair for the last year. We both are virgins and last month we tried having intercourse but he was unable to penetrate my vagina. And we then just stopped but he got an orgasm an ejaculated semen on the outer side of my vagina. Can I get pregnant like this? I did have a period later on but am facing a delay in my next period. Am really very scared if I am pregnant. I also want to know why my boy friend was unable to penetrate me. What may we do for it?

It is possible to become pregnant without actual penetration, less likely, but still possible. I would make an appointment at your primary care MD or family planning for a pregnancy test. If you are still unable to have intercourse, you should have an exam to assess your vaginal opening. They will not hurt you, and will be able to give you more information. Good Luck!

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Had IUD removed after I had sex

I had sex with a Paraguard IUD on Tuesday (was in the middle of my cycle), then I got the IUD removed next Monday. Can I get pregnant?

Sperm are viable for 72 hours once they reach the uterus and tubes. Pregnancy is unlikely.

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Trying, but got period

My husband and I had sex during my ovulation period around Sept. 6th, 8th and 10th. We are trying to conceive. About a week later I started having nausea, fatigue and the left side of my naval was aching. I thought there was a chance of me being pregnant but I started bleeding today Sept. 26. My cycle was supposed to start yesterday. Is there still a chance of me being pregnant? The bleeding is moderate.

Yes, there is a small chance. Some women do bleed on and off through the first few months of their pregnancies, though their bleeding is usually more spotting than full-blown-period bleeding. If this period is your usual period—same number of days, the usual amount of bleeding—then chances are good you weren’t pregnant and your period was just a day late. If this period doesn’t feel normal to you, we’d recommend an at-home pregnancy test. (Remember to use the first morning urine to be most accurate.)

If you’re not pregnant, don’t be discouraged. It takes an average of ONE YEAR of sex without birth control for two perfectly healthy, fertile people to become pregnant. What can you do while you wait to increase your chances for a healthy pregnancy?

--Have a regular yearly check-up. The check-up should include a pelvic exam and a check for any infections that can decrease your chances of becoming pregnant.
--Be healthy! Eat nutritious foods, exercise, and avoid alcohol and drugs.
--If you’re a smoker, now’s the time to quit. Smoking hurts you and is very unhealthy for babies before and after they’re born.
--Take a daily multivitamin that includes at least 400 mcg of folic acid. Folic acid can help prevent some severe birth defects.

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No period, pain in abdomen

I am a 29 yr married woman on no form of contraception. Although not 'trying' to fall pregnant, through working out ovulation dates etc, my husband and I were happy to just let nature take its course.

The first day of my last period on the 23rd July (I can set my watch to my cycle which is 28 days). I'm one of those females who has no dramas with PMS etc - no cramps, moods or bloating. On the 14th Aug we had unprotected intercourse and I assumed my period would arrive a few days later on the 20th Aug. It didn't arrive and on the 26th of Aug a preg test (urine) was Neg. Still my period hadn't arrived and I was now feeling quite weird - tired, grumpy and nauseous, so on the 5th of Sept I took another preg test and again Neg result.

Over the past week I have started to get bad cramps, they seem to favour my right side and at times it feels like I have been stabbed (very sharp and direct), at other times it is just a mild ache which can even trail into my rectum. Yesterday I felt a slight "gush" and discovered a brown substance (I assume it to be blood) on my pants.

No further spotting has occurred but the pain remains. I have heard of Eptopic Pregnancy or Tubal Pregnancies but I assume I would be in A LOT more pain if this was the case. Can you enlighten me as to what might be happening?

There are many things that make periods come late, but pregnancy is the first thing we think of if a woman’s having sex without birth control. The three negative pregnancy tests, though, are pretty solid evidence that you’re not pregnant. (Particularly if you followed the test directions and used your first morning urine for the tests.) Because of the repeated negative pregnancy tests, I’m not AS concerned about ectopic pregnancy (also known as tubal pregnancy, when the fertilized egg starts to grown in the wrong spot); even ectopic pregnancies usually show up as positive urine pregnancy tests.

If you were just having a late period with spotting, we’d say just wait a while to see if your periods start up again. Irregular periods are very common, and irregularity can be caused by stress, change in diet, change in exercise, a big move, medications, travel—you name it. But you’re having abdominal pain with the irregularity, and abdominal pain with irregular bleeding is always a reason to make an appointment for a check-up with your provider. It may turn out to be just a late period complete with all the drama of a BIG LATE period, but it’s important to make an appointment to be sure that that’s all that’s going on.

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Cramps

I have been taking the birth control pill for almost 2 years now and I skipped a month of taking it. I have cramps that come and go. I have not started my period yet. Is that a sign of pregnancy?

They COULD be but that does not necessarily mean they ARE - it could also be a sign of your period coming, or other things. The best way to find out if you are pregnant, is to take a pregnancy test or visit your local family planning or provider. If your symptoms continue with no explanation, please see your provider.

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Trying to get pregnant

I am 26 yrs old, me and my husband have been trying to get pregnant for the last year, but things aren't going as planned. I was on birth control about 2 yrs ago could that be a reason or should I being doing other things to help get pregnant?

Now would be a good time to see your provider for a work-up regarding your fertility, your husband's fertility, and your understanding of your cycle and when your fertile times occur.

A provider will review your personal history, your medical history and gynecological exam to assess your ability to conceive. It is also important to work with someone through the process of conceiving as other testing and recommendations may be necessary in the future.

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Discharge; trying to get pregnant

My husband and I are trying to get pregnant. I am currently 6 days past ovulation and am experiencing more than normal white vaginal discharge. It's not sticky, it's kind of stretchy but not like ovulation mucus stretchy. Could this be a sign of pregnancy?

The hormones of pregnancy can cause changes in your vaginal secretions. However, after only six days past ovulation it is not possible to be making any hormones, even with fertilization, that would cause this symptom. Other reasons to have a change in secretions are infection or imbalance. If your discharge is an unusual odor, a different color, or irritates your skin, have it evaluated by your provider. They will look at it under the microscope to be sure there are no problems that need treatment. Be sure to tell your provider that you are trying to get pregnant.

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Didn't actually HAVE sex, but still...

I am 17 and a very good girl and had never done anything with a guy, until June. I drank some and with that I made some decisions I normally would not have made.

I was with a guy then and he kept wanting to mess around. He took his pants of and I kept cheerleading shorts on, because I didn't want to do anything. We had dry sex, and I gave him a hand job. We also made out in a hot tub and pool.

Since then I have been over a month late on my period. I'm getting worried. I starting eating pickles, and I hate pickles. Later I was reading something about people craving pickles when they are pregnant. My breast have gotten bigger and I feel bloated, and I have a small pooch (which could be just normal weight gain). I cramp still and have discharge, but I haven't gotten my period. I keep thinking I'm going to start because I am moody, but nothing happens.

I'm getting worried, but is there really anything to worry about?

It sounds as if there's NOT anything to worry about. You’re right—pregnancy is one reason that periods come late. But another common cause of late periods is STRESS, and it sounds as if you're pretty stressed about this recent experience.

The symptoms you describe—swollen breasts, a bloated feeling, even some pooch—can be a sign that your late period is on its way. The pickle eating? Some people crave salty things when under stress. But you’re right—cravings can also be a sign of pregnancy. From your description, though, it sounds as if pregnancy is just about impossible. Keeping your clothes on was a great idea—to our knowledge, no one’s become pregnant through a layer of clothing! Hand jobs are also a good example of safe sex. And making out in the hot tub and pool—well, if you were just making out with clothes on, again there’s no danger of pregnancy. But IF at some point while you were fooling around, he came and some semen ended up on or around your vagina, and if any of that semen was then pushed into the vagina during sex play, there is a remote chance that some sperm were able to make it in…And THAT could result in pregnancy.

While it’s extremely rare, there have been cases of young women who didn’t have penis-in-the-vagina sex who did become pregnant. Our advice to you is to take an at-home pregnancy test right away to put your mind at rest. (Use your first morning urine for highest accuracy.) If the test is negative and you don't get a period soon, you should make an appointment for a check at your family planning clinic.

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Condom Broke!

I had sex with my boyfriend and the condom broke. I am afraid to tell my mom because I'm afraid of how she is going to react. I am scared out of my mind. I don't know what to do.

Call your local family planning center or call 1-800-887-4029 for Emergency Contraception. You can take it up to five days (but the earlier the better) after intercourse. Read here about EC. Don't delay - call NOW.

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Have to have period after shot?

Can a woman who just came off the Depo Provera shot get pregnant without having a period first? Do you have to go through a full cycle before pregnancy is possible?

Yes, you can discontinue Depo and get pregnant before the next period. As soon as you miss the next shot your body will start the development of an egg for fertilization, which occurs before a period.

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Mirena IUD

I've had the Marina IUD in for 2 1/2 years never having any problems. I am 2 months late now, have gained weight, breasts sore and enlarged and lactating, nauseated, always tired, and very moody.

I've taken urine and blood pregnancy tests and they have both been negative. The doctor even checked my thyroid ,which is fine. I've heard that the Marina IUD contradicts pregnancy tests because of the hormone that goes around it. Is this true and do you have any advice for me?

The progesterone hormone contained in the Mirena IUD would not mask HCG, the hormone detected in both blood and urine pregnancy tests. A negative pregnancy test would indicate accurately that you are not pregnant.

Remember that pregnancy tests detect pregnancies about two weeks after conception, so a negative pregnancy test is accurate as of two weeks prior and wouldn't detect a pregnancy that began within the last two weeks.

The symptoms that you have should be discussed with a women's health practitioner. If you are not pregnant, and your doctor is not actively trying to figure this out, then perhaps you should consider finding another practitioner. Good luck and take care.

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Pain and blood clots

I am wondering If it's possible that I may be pregnant. I'm 14 and my periods are always normal except lately I've been having a lot of pain and blood clots. The last time I did it was May 9th my period came on un-usual though, a lot of cramping and heavier bleeding and then last month (June) I didn't get one and now at the beginning of this month July, I'm on it. I HAVEN'T EVER been irregular so could this be pregnancy?

Any change in your period may indicate pregnancy. It may indicate a lost pregnancy. It may also indicate infection,a problem with your ovaries or hormone levels. Attend to this IMMEDIATELY by seeing a provider who can do a pregnancy test as well as a physical exam.

A negative pregnancy test without further evaluation of your bleeding is NOT enough, as it may reassure you that you are not pregnant while missing other problems. A positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding may indicate a tubal pregnancy which is an emergency requiring immediate attention. Don't hesitate to seek medical attention for the symptoms you have described.

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No period, no pregnancy??

I haven't gotten my period in about 3-4 months. I know it is not due to pregnancy (I've taken 2 pregnancy tests). Recently, I've been having unprotected sex with my husband, no contraceptives at all. Is it possible to get pregnant, during this time that I haven't had a period? I figure that no period means no ovulation. What's the deal?

You are right that no period means no ovulation, however, you can get pregnant in the time when you are not having periods because ovulation precedes the onset of your period by two weeks.

So, you will ovulate at some point, could get pregnant at that time and so would not start your period. This is why even people with very infrequent periods need to be contracepting consistently to prevent pregnancy.

Consistently not having a period for over three months at a time while you are young can be a risk for cancer of the uterine lining when you are post menopausal. So, it is important to see a provider and have your infrequent periods evaluated and treated if it becomes a pattern.

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Two negative pregnancy tests...am I pregnant?

My fiance and I have been trying to get pregnant for the past five months. On the 5th of May 2005, I got my period as scheduled but it was much lighter and I usually get really bad cramps but this time it was only a slight pain. By the 6th it turned to a brownish flow and even lighting. (like spotting). I took a pregnancy test on the tenth but it was negative. To make sure, I took another on on the 19th it too was negative. Whenever I eat I get really sick and am much more tired than normal. Even though the test was negative can there be a chance that I still may be pregnant?

Urine pregnancy tests are quite accurate and especially if two were negative, this shows you are not pregnant. A woman's period can vary from month to month, so a lighter, shorter or different color period is not always proof of pregnancy.

For couples who are actively trying to get pregnant, it often can take six months. Depending on how old you are - the older you are, i.e. over 35, the sooner I would consult a gyn. If you have tried for almost a year with no success, I would advise seeing a gynecologist to look into your and your partner's fertility. Also, if you continue to feel sick, this should be also be investigated. Good Luck!

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Used withdrawal, is she pregnant?

Me and my girlfriend have had sex many times without a condom. I pulled out every time, but I think one or two times I pulled out a little late. She is 3 days late now and I was curious if it was caused by stress and because she has been working out a lot recently. She says that she has cramps sometimes but then they go away (on and off) and it has never happened to her before. Is she pregnant?

As you probably know, there is no way I can answer this question without testing your girlfriend. You can get a home pregnancy test or she can go to family planning or her provider.

Yes, a lot of stress, regular heavy exercise, excessive dieting - all of these, among other things, can affect a woman's cycle.

Please understand that "pulling out" is not a reliable birth control method; if you do not wish to become pregnant, save yourself the anxiety and discuss with your girlfriend the best birth control method for your both. Knowing you are really protected will give you both peace of mind. Take care.

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Missed a period...had sex

My question is that I have missed a period and during the week that my period was supposed to come I had unprotected sex. It has been 6 days, I feel no symptoms and the pregnancy test came back negative. Should I wait and take another test and am I wrong in thinking that my cycle will just start any day now? Do cycles only start again at the time it normally does, meaning next month... and if it doesn't, does it mean that I got pregnant during that week after I was supposed to start my cycle?

Wait another 7 days and take a pregnancy test. Menstrual cycles, in general, can run 21-45 days. Most women are between 25 and 35 days but stress, travel, illness, etc can disrupt any cycle. Skipping a period, generally means you get a period a month later at about the time you usually get a period.

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Can drinking alcohol affect the result of a pregnancy test?

Alcohol does not affect a pregnancy test.

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Trying to conceive

I really want to have a baby. We had sex (April 27, no protection) but my period came on today (May 10) is there a possible chance I still may be pregnant. If I'm not, how come?

If your period was normal and at the time you expected it, then you are not pregnant. The chance of getting pregnant is about 20% with each cycle, which means there is an 80% chance that conception will not occur. By six months, 75% of couples will have conceived. So give it a few more months.

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Symptoms

I am 33 year old and have three kids. My husband and I been trying get pregnant for 6 years now. Last week I have hot flash - is this sign of pregnancy? Could I be pregnant ? I don't feel sick or any of sign pregnancy except hot flash in my face and sometime I do feel sick a short time and have had a boated stomach for three days. I also have irregular periods.

These symptoms are associated with hormonal changes and pregnancy could be the reason. Please see your health care provider to discuss these symptoms and to seek reasons for why you have not gotten pregnant. Good luck.

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Accutane & pregnancy

I started birth control and Accutane on the 3rd of April. I will be on both of those for 24 weeks. After I'm done with Accutane I want to get pregnant. I will be finished with Accutane in mid-September. How long can I wait until I try to get pregnant?

I know that with Accutane there is a HUGE risk of birth defects if you get pregnant so my boyfriend and I are not having sex at all until I'm totally off the medicine. My question is how long does it take accutane to get out of your system? Is there a half life to Accutane? I just want to be safe so that my baby doesn't get a birth defect. So if i wait until mid-November to get Pregnant will the Accutane be completely out of my system? Bottom line when will the accutane medicine be completely out of my system?

You are doing a terrific job being careful about pregnancy while on the Accutane. I would defer to your dermatologist or pharmacist for advice on when you could seek pregnancy safely after discontinuing the Accutane as they will know best based on your dosage. You can also read what is said about this on the FDA page about Accutane.

Once you do begin to try to get pregnant, the statistics for pregnancy are that most couples conceive within the first 6 months of trying and 85% conceive within the first year.

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Discharge

I had sex on Tues, April 12th. The following Monday I started having brown discharge like old blood. Tuesday April 19 I had sex again...pretty rough. Today (Thursday) the brown discharge turned more red. I'm not due for my period until the 23rd or 24th of this month. I'm on birth control,same pill for 3 years, and in the 10 years I've had my period, I've NEVER spotted. Could I be pregnant? Or if this is a result of rough sex, as the guy is much larger than I'm used to...why did it take almost a week for the brownish spotting to begin??? Could this be a sign of infection??

If you have not missed any pills then pregnancy is unlikely. The spotting may be related to your pills. Spotting can occur after years on the pill. It just happens. Consider seeing your health care provider to discuss this.

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On patch, cramps, periods off kilter

Hi, I have been on Othro Evra for the last 2 years. I keep track of when I change my patch and have been accurate for the last two years. I have had unprotected sex with my boyfriend lately but I was on the patch. I would not have sex 3 days prior to my fourth week of taking the patch off (week I get my period). I have had normal periods, I would always get it the Wednesday after I take the patch off and it would end 1-2 days after I put the patch back on which is on the Sunday.

Last month (February) I got my period a day late and it ended by Sunday afternoon, which is not common, when I put the patch on. In March I got my period on time but it lasted 3 days longer then it normally does, and now in April I got my period on time with cramps the day before but none other than that.

I have had bad cramps between those two months (Feb-March) prior to my period and I am worried that I might have had a miscarriage or if I am pregnant I still might be pregnant. I went for a pap smear test for a check up on my inflammation that I had had 3 months prior, a week before my period in February so I thought that was the reason for the light period and the bad cramps but my result came back normal this month. I am not sure which reason is for the change in my period for the last two months.

Given how perfectly you are using the patch it is very unlikely that you are pregnant. For many women, after several years of using a hormonal method (pills, patch, Depo (the shot), they will experience some changes in their bleeding. Shorter or longer bleeding, different days, maybe cramps. If you are happy overall with the method, then discuss these changes with your provider (sometimes they want to see you) then continue your method. These things usually clear up. If the cramping continues than see your provider to make sure it is not something worrisome.

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Sex then period...

My fiance and I had unprotected intercourse on the 18th of March, we used the pull-out method and then again twice on March 26th and he did ejaculate inside me both times. My period usually comes on the 14th and in April it came on the 2nd, and it is pretty heavy. Is there still a chance of me being pregnant?

Since sperm can live up to five days inside a woman's body, sometimes women experience a period or spotting after becoming pregnant. To be totally sure, you can take a pregnancy test. Every time you have unprotected sex there is a chance of getting pregnant. If you do not wish to become pregnant, please consider visiting your local family planning and finding a reliable birth control method. Condoms are also readily available and reliable.

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Discharge & cramping

My period usually comes anywhere between 28-34 days, right now I'm on the 34th day of my cycle and it hasn't come yet. Lately I've been having more vaginal discharge then usual and every once in a while I get some cramping, very little though. I had unprotected sex on about the 9th and I'm really scared that I might be pregnant. I was wondering if a lot of discharge and some cramping are signs of that? Or are the stomach pains just nerves?

Pregnancy is a possibility with the symptoms you describe. Home pregnancy tests are very good. Either do a home test or call your local family planning to set up an appointment. If you are not pregnant, please go on a reliable form of birth control to help you avoid this agony in the future. Good luck.

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Took morning after pill

I got raped and I want to know if I can still get pregnant after taking the morning after pill 2 days after I got raped? My period was like 5 days late and at night I feel sick and more tired.

Pregnancy is still possible but taking the pills within 48 hours makes the chances very low. Please seek medical advice for your fatigue - this could be caused by any number of things, including your body's emotional reaction to the rape. It sounds like you need to receive medical attention for the rape. It is so important that you get the physical and emotional care you need and deserve after this terrible event. Please let us know if we can be of any assistance to you - if you contact your local family planning clinic they can help you. Take care of yourself by seeking the help of others - including professionals.

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We want to get pregnant

How can my boyfriend and I get pregnant on our own? We have been trying off and on since 1997.

Please seek infertility counseling. Family planning or your health care provider can be helpful at providing referrals. Also, you may find some helpful information at the INCCID website.

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Home pregnancy tests

I had sex on 12th,15th,16th, & 17th days and my menstrual cycle is 28days. I checked home pregnancy test on my 22nd of the cycle it came back negative. One of the doctors told that immediately after doing the sex after 4 days you can check with a home pregnancy test and it will show. Can I check now?

Home tests are best done 10-14 days after you believe you may have become pregnant.

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Depo to Pill to nothing

I was on the depo shot from February of 2004-September of 2004 when I received my last shot. Then I went on the pill for a month. It has been like a month since I had stopped the cycle cause I had no way of getting to family planning and I couldn't get more. I got my period when I was supposed to on the pill. Now I am 2 months late for my period. I had sex on new years day, 2 times with condoms once without, but my boyfriend pulled out. I had very small spotting since then, but hardly even that. It was like one day, a couple of brown spots, and the next day even less. I wore panty liners hoping for my period but nothing. Now, I still have not had any spotting or bleeding or cramps. What are the chances of pregnancy?

Pregnancy is possible but not likely. It sounds like your body is just taking some time to get back to a regular cycle. To minimize your worry, get a home pregnancy test and test a first morning urine to see if you are pregnant. Also, get an appointment with family planning as soon as you can. In the meantime, use condoms EVERY time - don't put yourself through this again!

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Lots of symptoms, on Depo, the Pill...

I started the Depo shot in February. I haven't had my period since then. The last time I saw my boyfriend was in September and we had sex several times that weekend. I haven't seen him since then, but I did start spotting some brown blood, like what I used to get at the end of my period. After a couple weeks it stopped. I got bloated and crampy and thought maybe I was pregnant, but then kind of brushed it off cause I was generally one size, wasn't getting much bigger.

I have been exercising for about a month now, and I have been getting bigger. I have also had some sickness where I just have to throw up out of the blue with no warning. Other than that some nausea while laying in bed, but not to the point where I have to puke. My lower abdomen does feel firm, but not round like a ball, from what I have heard it should. I have been badly constipated the past month in a half or so, and I can smell things from like a mile away. I checked out some web sites listing symptoms, and I have like 8 out of 10.

During the period when I decided I wasn't pregnant, I started the pill again, but I was due for my period on Sunday (it's Tuesday). There is no spotting, or the usual period cramps. When I try to work out and do my normal exercises lately, my middle and lower torso get sharp pains. It's been hard, I have been cutting back but it doesn't seem to make a difference. If I was pregnant, I'm afraid I'm endangering my baby.

Did your provider put you on the pill or did you just start taking it? If you did just start taking it on your own, did you do it correctly? If you are on Depo AND the Pill, that is not good and could cause you problems. If you had a Depo shot in February, then did not have a follow up shot and did not start the pill until this past fall and had sex in between, then YES you could be pregnant as your symptoms are saying.

However, your note is very convoluted and there is SO much here that I really can't begin to answer all your concerns without examining you.

Your symptoms could be many things and you need to get to your doctor as soon as possible and get this sorted out. Make sure you tell them exactly what you've told me - actually, copy and paste the note above into your word processor and show it to your provider.

You need to see a doctor NOW - please don't delay.

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I'm afraid I'm pregnant

I missed my period for almost 2 months. Usually, my husband uses a condom during our intercourse. Rarely that he uses the withdrawal method. Could there be possibility that I could get pregnant with these methods? At 24 I'm already a mom of an 8-month old baby delivered through cesarean, is it safe to get pregnant though it's beyond 1 year after I've been operated on? If stress causes this menstrual stop, how long before will it be restored?

The condom is not the most reliable method, as they can break, come off, be put on too late, or otherwise be used incorrectly. The "withdrawal method" is not considered a valid form of birth control by most family planning centers.

So, yes, you could be pregnant and a home pregnancy test can tell you, or a visit to your provider. As for being pregnant again after your cesarean, that should not be a problem - but it's best to discuss that with your doctor. If you have had a lot of stress - much more than usual - lately, it can cause your periods to stop, but that is the most unlikely scenario here.

Please see your health care provider soon. Take care.

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Having Symptoms

I have been on the pill for years and have taken it perfectly. I last had sex 8 weeks ago and have had one period since then. I have been experiencing many of the symptoms common to pregnancy (vomiting etc). I missed my latest period. I went to the doctor this week and the blood test came back negative, but a few days later I took a home urine test and it was positive. All of these signs seem to point in different directions. Do you think it is likely I am pregnant? What can I do to find out for sure?

The best think to do is repeat the pregnancy test. Call your provider, tell them about the positive urine test and request another blood test. If that one comes out negative, request a full physical to find out the cause of your symptoms. Good luck.

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Pre-ejaculate can make you pregnant

If you are having sex and he pre-ejaculates inside of you and you are not wearing a condom can you get pregnant?

Yes.

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Irregular periods...unprotected sex

My periods are pretty irregular. They vary from a 24 day cycle to a 27 day cycle. I had a period Aug. 25th that was normal. My boyfriend and I had unprotected intercourse Sept. 12th. I started my period on the 18th. We then again had unprotected intercourse on Sept. 25th. I am 10 days post menses and am having intermittent dark to light brown blood. My breasts began to become tender about 2 days ago and my face is breaking out worse than before I start my period. I am having now, the symptoms I usually have about 10 days before starting my menstrual cycle. The breast tenderness increases daily and I got up off the floor today and saw stars. My periods have been messed up since going off Depo Provera 2 years ago. Is it possible I could be pregnant with such wacky cycles?

Yes, pregnancy is a possibility. Either way, you should call your provider or family planning. In the meantime, a drug store pregnancy test could tell you if you are pregnant. In the future, it you do not wish to become pregnant, please consider one of the many birth control options available besides Depo. Please visit your local family planning soon and discuss all your options with them. Good luck.

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Symptoms

Can the symptoms of birth control sometimes trick you into thinking you are pregnant? In other words are some of the symptoms the same (weight gaining, light periods, etc)?

Yes, sometimes the side effects of birth control pills can mimic pregnancy symptoms. If you are on the pill, make sure you take it exactly as directed and you do not have to worry. If the side effects are bothersome, please see your provider - possibly a different pill might help.

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Pregnant from semen on a cloth?

My boyfriend & I were using our hands for masturbation & he got sperm on a cloth when he was wiping it up & then I used it to wipe off my vagina. Then after that, we had sex but nothing happened there.. Is there any chance that I may be pregnant?

The chances of becoming pregnant by wiping yourself with a cloth that has semen on it are very slim. I can't tell you if there is a chance if you may be pregnant because I don't know what you mean by "we had sex but nothing happened."

Your best option at this point is to get yourself on some reliable birth control as soon as possible and avoid putting yourself in these situations that cause you stress and worry. Please take care and see your local provider or family planning center soon.

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Took pill 10 hours later...

My boyfriend and I have been having sex for about a month now. I am on birth control pills and I take them very regularly (7:45 every morning). Well, I just stopped my period about a week and a few days ago and we just had sex yesterday (7 or 8 days after my period). I had forgotten to take the pill that day at 7:45 a.m. and ended taking it at 6:00 p.m. We had sex that night at about 10:15 p.m. and we used the "withdrawal" method. He did not ejaculate into me but I was worried about the pre-ejaculation. Is there any way I could be pregnant since I am on birth control?

Good for you for being so conscientious! It is very unlikely that you could get pregnant. Taking one pill 10 hours later is fine. The rule of thumb is if you take the forgotten pill within 24 hours, then you're fine. If you end up taking it with the next day's pill (taking two pills) , then use a backup method. If you miss many in a row, call your local family planning clinic and get their advice.

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Time to wait before preg test

How long should I wait until I take a pregnancy test? I have irregular periods so I never know for sure when I will be or supposed to be getting my period.

A pregnancy test will be accurate approximately 10-15 days after you believe a pregnancy could have occurred. Most tests you buy now will be accurate in this timeframe.

If you wish to prevent pregnancy, please consider talking to your local family planning center or health care provider about your irregular periods and to also see if there is a reliable form of birth control right for you.

If you are trying to become pregnant, then you also need to see your healthcare provider to make sure you are doing everything you need to be doing (like folic acid, vitamins, not smoking or drinking) to make sure you conceive a healthy baby. Additionally, your healthcare provider may have some insight into your irregular periods as many things can cause them. Take care.

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