Pregnancy: Could I Be Pregnant? / Question
Published: March 12, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I need help! My boyfriend and I have been having sex for about 2 months now. We always use protection, he always pulls out when he cums, and we check for holes in condom when finished. Now I am 6 days late on my period. I never start right on the day that I am supposed to. Should I be worried? He's the only person that I've did this with. Please help! worried.
Signed: 6 Days Late, Should I Be Worried?
Dear 6 Days Late, Should I Be Worried?,
TeenHealthFX applauds you. It sounds like you and your boyfriend are doing a good job of practicing safer sex. No method of birth control is perfect, but if you use and dispose of a condom properly each time you have sex, you will greatly reduce your chances of getting pregnant. You might try using a lubricant that has spermicide for extra protection.
The younger you are, the less regular your period tends to be. Many girls in their teens don't have regular cycles. It takes a while for your body to find a rhythm. As you get older, your cycle will probably become more consistent. Also, some doctors suggest that if you're worried about something (like being pregnant!) your cycle may slow down, making it less likely that you will get your period on time.
If you are still concerned that you are pregnant, we recommend you take a pregnancy test so you can find out for sure. You can get a home pregnancy kit at your drug store, or have a health professional test you. If you live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.5199. If you live outside of northern New Jersey, call your local Planned Parenthood. These are excellent places to talk to someone about your options in the event that you are pregnant.
Good luck, and keep practicing safer sex!
Signed: TeenHealthFX
At all levels of blood alcohol concentration (BAC), the risk of involvement in a motor vehicle crash is greater for teens than for older drivers.
