Re: antibiotics and birth control pills

Posted By hfhs.rn.bp on December 16, 1998 at 10:19:20:

In Reply to: antibiotics and birth control pills posted by Erin on December 10, 1998 at 14:05:12:






I took an antibiotic for a sinus infection (Bactrim) for ten days this month
and did not use a back-up method of contraception although I did continue
to take my birth control pills.  It's now been 23 days since the start of my
last period (I'm expecting it in five days) and I've been experiencing very
tender breasts (especially in the nipple area), increased fatigue, and
indigestion/heartburn when I lie down at night in the past four days or so.
How likely is it that I became pregnant from having sex while taking this
anitibiotic?  I don't want to wait another five days to take a home pregnancy
test!




  ______
Hi Erin.  By now you probably have your answer. The signs you are experiencing can be pregnancy related, although it would be unlikely.  The other thing to consider is whether these may be related to side effects of the antibiotic,  an increase in caffeine, or other foods or drinks which may irritate your stomach.  If you had a UTI your fatigue could be from your body's response to the infection as well.  I also do not know how long you've been on the Pill because these may also be side effects of the Pill, especially in the first several months of use.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.