Coalition for Positive Sexuality

[freeweezy]

I've been terribly stressed lately and mostly because my period is late. In October, I had it for three days, as part of my September cycle. and it is now November 6th, and I have not had it since. My boyfriend never finished inside me, and we always use a condom. I'm late on my period because of stress, or is it possible to become pregnant with that?

[SmartHealth4U]

Stress or any other life changes can definitley cause you to have an irregular or late period/menstrual cycle. I would try not to stress too much seeing that you are practicing safe sex. Although, it is important to remember that anytime you have sex there is a chance of pregnancy, even if you used a condom. Condoms do protect against pregnancy but they can fail sometimes. If you are concerned that you could be pregnant you can always take an at home pregnancy test just for a piece of mind.

[SMDuncan]

Like SmartHealth4U wrote stress can delay an otherwise normal cycle, so try and relax and if it is still delayed then you can take an at home pregnancy test. Most at home tests are accurate up to 5 days before the missed period and then any time after the missed cycle.
Is your cycle usually irregular? If so, using a hormonal contraceptive can help regulate it.

[freeweezy]

it usually is pretty irregular, but i'm just afraid because I feel like it skipped out on October's cycle. And, yes, i am aware of the fact that condoms do not work 100%. I just canNOT be pregnant, haha. 1.) My parents would blow up, they dont' even know I have a boyfriend...2.) I couldn't handle it at 20. :/
I will try the at-home kit tomorrow, and keep my fingers crossed for my special visitor to hurry up!!! Thank you both.:)

[freeweezy]

also, i am looking to get myself on birth control pretty soon...

[SMDuncan]

The average cycle lasts 28 days, so if you count 28 days from your first day of bleeding then that is when the average cycle will begin. Again, please remember that this is just the average, and that a normal cycle can range between 21-40 days.
Talking with a doctor and using a hormonal contraceptive is an effective way to help regulate your cycle and prevent pregnancy, but it does not protect you from the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) so be sure to use condoms still if you are not in a monogamous relationship.
Taking an at home pregnancy test is the best indicator of pregnancy without the prescence of your period. They can be very accurate, and are most effective if taken first thing in the morning since they detect the pregnancy hormone HCG that collects in the urine. Of course you can take the test at anytime, its just recommended in the morning since this is when the HCG is at its strongest concentration after a solid night's sleep.
Best of luck, and please keep us posted.

[katrinak3]

There are various types of birth control options out there for you. You should visit your local parenthood website or office becuase they have great information about the different types so that you can make a good decision for yourself.