Missed period mess

I've been using the contraceptive pill for one month and I've just missed my period. I'm really worried. What could be the reason - and do I need to get a check-up?

If you miss a period or have a shorter, lighter bleed, it can be a sign of pregnancy. However, if you took all your pills correctly and you didn't have an upset stomach or take any other medicines that might have affected the pill, then it's unlikely you're pregnant. You should also make sure that you followed your pill packet instructions with regard to when you could first begin having unprotected sex. If you're certain that nothing like this could have prevented the pill from working effectively, start your next packet at the right time.

If you are concerned, though, it might be worth doing a pregnancy test to find out for sure. Most pregnancy tests state that they work as soon as a period is late (i.e. one day). If you do not have a regular cycle it can be difficult to know when a period is due, so it's best to take the test three weeks after having unprotected sex (as this is roughly how long it will take for the hormone levels to show up on the test).

If you're under 25, you can get a free test at your local Brook Centre with immediate results. You can also get a free test at a family planning clinic and some local doctors (GPs). Another option is to pay for a pregnancy test at the chemist. The chemist can do a test for you or sell you a pregnancy testing kit to use yourself at home.

If you are pregnant, be sure to get advice as soon as possible to decide what you want to do next. At a Brook Centre you'll also be able to talk through how you feel and what your options are, in confidence, which means no one will be told about your visit unless you want them to. You can also call their freephone helpline on 0800 0185 023.

If you're not pregnant, it is important that you get advice about contraception to avoid unwanted pregnancy in the future.

Updated: 17/01/2008

Question answered by YouthNet in association with Brook