I'm looking for a bit of advice when it comes to birth control and the risk of pregnancy. I'm 25 and became sexually active for the first time in February of this year. I decided to wait until I had a long-term partner, and because of that am feeling a bit naive as I enter what is becoming a loving and mature sexual relationship.
I've been on the combination pill since January, and have taken it within an hour of my scheduled time everyday to date. My boyfriend and I use condoms each time we have sex, although there have been brief instances of genital touching during foreplay. He finishes inside of me, tending to linger a moment before pulling out. I haven't noticed a broken or leaking condom afterwards. I understand that my chances of pregnancy are quite small, especially using both methods, but nonetheless find myself worrying each month that I might have done something to get myself pregnant. Any change or symptom that resembles an early pregnancy sign (like an ongoing upset stomach/nausea) is enough to have me concerned for the rest of my cycle. Yet I know these symptoms are also side effects to the pill I take.
I'm a natural worrier, and don't want to jeopardize the relationship with my loving (and extremely patient!) boyfriend. Nor do I want to keep myself awake at night, or distract myself at work worrying about the "what-ifs?". Are there any good resources or tips to help calm this monthly anxiety I seem to have? And in your experience, do these feelings go away with time, maturity, and experience? Perhaps it might be time to seek professional help, though when I really think about it, my concerns seem a bit naive and silly. I know I'm not the first, and certainly won't be the last girl to worry, so I thank you for any advice you might be able to offer. This is one of the most helpful and comforting women's health sites around.