Pregnancy

[lucy10051998]

Hi,

I have had unprotected sex 3 times over the last 2 months however have had my period since then although it is lighter than usual. Also I have noticed a swelling/bloating in my stomach and feel exhausted a lot more than usual. I am worried in case I am pregnant but only being 16 have no way of buying a test as when I went to purchase one i was told that I had to be 18. Any help would be much appreciated.

[Bpas_1968]

Hi Lucy,

It sounds like the shop assistant / pharmacist you spoke to about the pregnancy test was very unhelpful. Unfortunately some individuals don't feel comfortable giving contraception or pregnancy tests to younger women, but you are absolutely legally allowed to buy a pregnancy test at any age.

Some women do continue to have light periods whilst pregnant, so as you had unprotected sex then you are definitely right to take a test. The NHS website has some handy information about pregnancy tests here which might be helpful: nhs.uk/Livewell/Sexandyoung...

You can buy pregnancy tests in supermarkets and pharmacies (even if you are under 18) but you can also get a free test from your GP or, if you would prefer, local contraceptive clinic - you can find your nearest here: fpa.org.uk/find-a-clinic

If you are pregnant, then you will be able to discuss your options at any of these places and it is important that you do so as soon as possible, whether you want to continue with the pregnancy or have a termination. And if the test is negative, your GP or local contraceptive clinic can also talk to you about methods of contraception if you want to avoid pregnancy.

I'm so sorry you were not given the right advice but hope this information is useful. Just let me know if you have any other questions.

Best wishes,

Katherine

[Judith_lovesjazz]

Hi Lucy,

It sounds like you've had a rotten time which is really not very fair at all. I hope you are ok. If you can't get to your gp for a free test you could always try poundland because that will be really cheap.. And maybe you could go with a friend, if you feel you can talk to someone about it, and they could help you. x