Pregnancy: Could I Be Pregnant? / Question
Published: October 20, 2008
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Me and my boyfriend had sex about a week ago. We use condoms every time and this time was no different. It did not break split or have any hole in it. I was supposed to get my period 8 days ago and I still have not gotten it. I have cramps every now and then as if my period is fixin to start but it still hasn't.I haven't had any other symptoms. Every time we have sex my period is late but it hasnt been this late before. I am afraid that I am pregnant but my boyfriend and friends say that I am just stressing about it and my best friend said she didn't have one for two months. Could I be doing the same or what is going on???
Signed: Late Periods And Stressing About Being Pregnant
Dear Late Periods And Stressing About Being Pregnant,
TeenHealthFX suggests that you see a medical health professional as soon as possible for three reasons. First, you can find out for certain whether or not you are currently pregnant. Second, if your late period is not due to pregnancy you can be evaluated by the doctor to get a better understanding of what is causing the recent changes in your menstrual cycle. And three, you can speak with a doctor about possibly changing your method of birth control in a way that helps you to feel more protected. It is generally recommended that teens use a condom, as well as a back-up method of birth control such as the pill or patch. So you may want to speak to your doctor about using a second method of birth control.
Keep in mind that the only method of ensuring you will not become pregnant is abstinence. If you find that you are becoming too stressed about the possibility of becoming pregnant (which is certainly understandable for a teenager), it might be time for you to take a step back with your boyfriend and discontinue having intercourse until you feel more comfortable with it. There are other ways you and your boyfriend can feel close to one another and be loving without involving intercourse – you just need to decide what you are most comfortable with at this point in your life. So discuss with your doctor and your boyfriend your concerns and decide what will feel best for you.
If you don't have a doctor and live in northern
If you live in northern
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Teens whose parents talk to them regularly about the dangers of drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those whose parents don’t, yet only 1 in 4 teens report having these conversations. 
