Breast Changes: Causes and Pregnancy Concerns After Birth Control Switch

Engorged nipples and protruding areolas?

My girlfriend has been taking Meishinong for two months and switched to Aiji this month.
She finished the Meishinong on February 19, and her period started on February 22.
She began taking the new Aiji on February 26, the fifth day of her period.
We had sexual intercourse on February 28, using a condom throughout the act and checked that it did not break.
Since then, we have had sexual intercourse approximately 2 to 6 times a week.
A few days ago, she started noticing that her breasts have become larger and fuller, and the left areola and nipple are more prominent.
I would like to ask: 1.
What could be the reason for this? 2.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy? 3.
Pharmacists say it's fine to start taking the medication on the fifth day of the period, but online sources often suggest stopping the medication for 7 days before starting again.
What is the difference?

Mr. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/10

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, this way of eating is correct, and you should not become pregnant.
For the issue with your nipples, you can observe it for now.
If you still experience discomfort, you may consult a breast specialist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/03/10

More Info

Understanding breast changes, especially during and after switching birth control methods, can be quite complex. Your girlfriend's experience of breast enlargement and changes in the nipple area after switching from one contraceptive pill to another is not uncommon and can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations caused by the new medication.

1. Causes of Breast Changes: The breast tissue is sensitive to hormonal changes, particularly estrogen and progesterone. When your girlfriend switched from 美適儂 (Mirelle) to 愛己 (Aijie), her body may have experienced a shift in hormone levels. This can lead to breast tenderness, swelling, and changes in the appearance of the nipples and areolas. These symptoms are often temporary and can occur as the body adjusts to the new hormonal environment. Additionally, the timing of her menstrual cycle could also play a role; hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can cause similar breast changes.

2. Possibility of Pregnancy: Given that you both used condoms consistently and checked for any breakage, the likelihood of pregnancy is low. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and the timing of sexual activity in relation to her menstrual cycle can also influence the risk of pregnancy. Since she started taking the new pill on the fifth day of her period, it is generally considered safe to assume that she is protected from pregnancy, as long as she continues to take the pill as directed. However, if there is any concern about potential pregnancy, a home pregnancy test can provide clarity.

3. Starting the New Birth Control Pill: The advice regarding when to start a new birth control pill can vary. Some healthcare providers recommend starting the new pill immediately after finishing the previous one, while others suggest waiting for a full seven days to ensure that the body has cleared the previous hormones. The difference in recommendations may stem from the specific formulations of the pills and how they interact with the body. Starting the new pill on the fifth day of her period, as your pharmacist suggested, is generally acceptable, especially if she has been taking the previous pill consistently. However, if there are any concerns or if she experiences unusual symptoms, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

In summary, the breast changes your girlfriend is experiencing are likely due to hormonal adjustments from switching birth control pills. The risk of pregnancy appears low given the precautions taken, but if there are any doubts, a pregnancy test can help confirm. Lastly, understanding the nuances of starting a new contraceptive method is essential, and consulting with a healthcare provider can provide the best guidance tailored to her specific situation. If she continues to experience discomfort or has any other concerning symptoms, seeking medical advice is always a wise choice.

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