[mllbtlr]

I had sex for the first time this past month and now it's time for my period and I'm starting to get scared. I'm 17. We did not use protection, just the pull out method. We had sex about 15 times. I'm due to get my period today, tomorrow, or maybe the next day (slightly irregular). I have several symptoms of pregnancy. I've been bloated on and off for a few days now. I found a small skin tag under my armpit, which I removed. I'm having trouble sleeping. My breasts are tender to the touch. I took a home pregnancy test a few hours ago, but I read those are more accurate in the morning... it came back negative. I have also been moody, a bit tired, having trouble sleeping, and very stressed the last couple days! Please help me!

[Fr_Chuck]

If you had sex with no protection at all, and had it many times, yes you very well could be pregnant, that is what causes it.

You will need to wait about one week, till the time for the period is past, and use the first urine of the morning for the test.

[DaniCalifornia]

Argh! I've heard of so many people get pregnant as they think the pull-out method is a legit form of contraception.

You COULD be pregnant, it could also just be a change in emotions and hormones. After I lost my virginity, I felt different. Also, paranoia can exaggerate those symptoms.

X Dani

[DoulaLC]

Have you had your period yet? If not, give it several more days in case it is just a bit off this cycle. If you test, follow the directions carefully.

The withdrawal method can be used effectively, but often is not. The situation you described is a perfect example of how it should not be used. Re-entering the vagina, after withdrawing to ejaculate, is one of the main reasons the withdrawal method fails as some sperm can remain from the ejaculation.

If you engage in sex in the future, your partner must use a condom every time before entering you at all.

[J_9]

The withdrawal method can be used effectively, but often is not.

With the greatest respect to Doula, I would be reluctant to state this to a teen such as the OP. The withdrawal method takes a great amount of self control and experience to be used effectively. Most 17 year old boys that I know are not capable of feeling/understanding/controlling this heightened state of arousal enough to be sure exactly when to withdraw.

In approximately 100 couples who practice the withdrawal method correctly, 4 women become pregnant. If withdrawal is not practiced correctlym the statistics fall to 27 women who conceive.

The odds are too high for a girl your age. Please use 2 or more methods of birth control. Although I am now a nurse, I did get pregnant using 2 methods of birth control correctly. The pill AND the condom. Not once, but twice.