How do I know my BC pills are working?
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How do I know my BC pills are working?
| Mon, 03-15-2004 - 9:05pm |
I just started ortho-tricyclen lo in February. My question is...how can I know that it is working and that I am not ovulating? I have faithfully taken my pill everyday at the same time. I have not had any vomiting or diarrhea and I have not been on any antibiotics. But, I am experiencing some dizziness, fatigue, and nausea...which I know are symptoms of pregnancy. Are these also side effects of BC pills? Or should I start worrying about pregnancy? My fiance and I started having SI without any backup after I finished the 2nd week of my first pack of pills. (I was a day 1 starter.) Anyhow, maybe I just need some peace of mind....any help is appreciated. Also, hope I am not beating a dead dog into the ground about the pregnancy thing....switching BC methods can be so stressful when I don't know exactly what to expect! Thanks in advance!!


Dizziness, fatigue, and nausea are all possible side effects when beginning oral contraceptives. They should disappear by about the end of your 3rd pack. If you have been taking your pills correctly as you say you have, then you should be very safe. One way you could check to see that you aren't ovulating is to chart your basal body temperature. You should be looking for a series of very similar readings, no temperature rise that would indicate ovulation. If you would like to know more about charting let us know. I'll bet you're fine.
Good luck,
Jill