It's not quite the same as a period, hence the different name. A withdrawal bleed is the body's reaction to the change in hormones brought on by transitioning from active pills to placebo pills. The lining of the uterus is already thinned by hormonal contraception, and the drop in hormone is just en...

Hi amour, First of all, there is no reason to feel ashamed! Your thoughts and feelings are just that: thoughts and feelings. They are yours and yours alone. As human we all have impulses, fantasies, and thoughts that make us glad that mind-reading is impossible. And most importantly, thoughts and fe...

Also, this article might be helpful for when you choose to have these (and other) important conversations with a provider: Dealing With Doctors: Taking Control of Your Health Care Destiny

Hi Dollface! My first concern is that you say you hated anal sex when you tried it. You should only try it again only if you really want to. It might just not be your thing, and that's ok. If you decide you'd like to try again, it would be best to wait until your hemorrhoids are healed up for the mo...

Yep! Nothing to worry about. Many hormonal changes, like those induced by birth control pills, are not instantaneous, but happen gradually. Your hormone levels are still rising/transitioning during that first day or two.

Basically--effectiveness is not affected if you take the pill within a 12 hour window, for example 7am to 7pm. But having a regular time every day is really helpful as a memory cue!

You're welcome, glad I could help!

Hi Worried, The backup method recommendation pertains to the first week of being on hormonal contraceptives, not the first week of every new pack. A backup barrier method like condoms is always a good idea though, for protection against STIs and for extra peace of mind if you're the type to worry ab...

You're welcome!

Whichever you would prefer!

Hi esTa, Trying on pants poses virtually no STI risk. Almost all STIs are transmitted through direct genital contact or exchange of body fluids. One exception can be pubic lice, which cause very severe, constant itching and sometimes blue spots. So basically, you would know pretty quickly if you had...

Hi Worrywart, Generally, your safe window is within three hours of your regular pill time, so since you were within that window there's no need to worry at all! Just take your pill at your regular time tomorrow. If you ever happen to take your pill outside of that three hour window, a backup method ...

You're welcome!

Hi there, So sorry about the tummy troubles. It sounds like you've got a good handle on your pregnancy worries, although I would certainly consider asking your PCP for a referral to someone who can help you work through your anxiety if that's available to you. You can even check out Scarleteen's Hel...