Birth Control Pills & Period Changes: Common Questions Answered

Question
Hello I'm 20 years old and started taking Ortho Tri-Clyclen Lo on April 5th after my period. This is my first month on the pill and I take it regualarly, usually between 6 and 7pm. My boyfriend and I are sexually active but we practice safe sex every time.

My questions are:
-Does not taking the pill at the exact same time have a negative effect on the protection I receive?
-Is it normal to miss your period the first month after you begin the pill?
-Right now I'm late on my period but have the swollen, tender breasts and cramps could I be pregnant or is my body just adjusting to the pill?
-How likely is it to get pregnant while on the pill?
-What are signs I should look for that I could be pregnant?
-How long after missing a period should I take a home test/doc visit?

Thank you  

Answer
Hello Tiffany. The pills of today are VERY sensitive to the smallest variation in when you take them- be SURE it is at the same time EVERY day. Yes, your symptoms are consistent with starting the pill- it is designed to fool your ovaries into thinking you are pregnant, so you will have lots of "pregnancy signs". Until you are 6-8 weeks along in a real pregnancy, there are no signs other than the missed period. It is not unusual to become pregnant while on the pill, so you MUST use a condom as well EVERY time. Always use TWO forms of birth control. Hope that helps- Cheri.