Am I Pregnant? Birth Control and Menstrual Changes

Are you pregnant?

I would like to ask the doctor, I have been taking oral contraceptive pills and I am currently on my second pack.
My menstrual periods in May and June were normal.
Typically, my periods last about eight days, but in June, it only lasted five days (from June 23 to June 27).
I started taking the first pack of oral contraceptives on June 27 and finished on July 17.
During this time, I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend.
I bought the second pack the next day, on July 18, and asked the pharmacist how to take it.
The pharmacist advised me to continue taking it, so I did.
After starting the second pack, my period had not yet arrived, but I had intercourse with my boyfriend while using a condom.
However, I later noticed that my period in July was late; it started on the night of July 27, but the flow was light and the next morning it was brown, resembling the color of menstrual blood towards the end of a period.
After that, my period did not return for the rest of the day.
I would like to know if I might be pregnant or if this is just a result of taking the contraceptive pills, causing a menstrual irregularity?

Shan Lee, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/29

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the amount of menstrual bleeding during the use of contraceptive pills may be less than usual, which is a normal phenomenon.
However, the bleeding on the 27th seems atypical, as the timing and volume do not align with a normal menstrual cycle.
If the bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for examination and treatment.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2015/07/29

More Info

It sounds like you have a lot of questions regarding your menstrual cycle and the effects of birth control pills on your body. Let's break this down to help you understand your situation better.

First, it's important to recognize that hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, can significantly affect your menstrual cycle. When you take these pills, they work by altering your hormone levels to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. This can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle, including the duration and flow of your periods.

From your description, it seems that you have been taking the birth control pills consistently. You mentioned that your periods in May and June were normal, but in June, your period lasted only five days instead of the usual eight. This could be a result of the hormonal changes induced by the birth control pills. It's not uncommon for women to experience lighter or shorter periods when they are on hormonal contraceptives.

After starting your second pack of pills, you noted that your period was late in July, arriving on the 27th. The brown color you observed is often associated with older blood, which can occur at the end of a menstrual period or when the flow is lighter. This can also be a normal response to hormonal changes from the birth control pills.

Now, regarding the possibility of pregnancy: while you have been taking your birth control pills, you also mentioned having unprotected intercourse (with ejaculation) during the time you were on the first pack. Although birth control pills are highly effective when taken correctly, no contraceptive method is 100% foolproof. If you missed any doses or took the pills inconsistently, this could increase the risk of pregnancy.

Given that you have experienced a late period and changes in your menstrual flow, it would be wise to take a home pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy. These tests are generally reliable and can provide you with a quick answer. If the test is negative and your period remains irregular, it may be beneficial to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and any concerns you may have.

In summary, your irregularities in your menstrual cycle could be attributed to the hormonal effects of the birth control pills. However, since there is a possibility of pregnancy, taking a pregnancy test is a prudent step. If you have further concerns or if your menstrual irregularities continue, seeking advice from a healthcare professional would be the best course of action. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and current situation.

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