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Week by Week

Ask A Nurse
Questions and Answers

Q. I was using a condom with spermicide already on it and it broke. I have to wait a torturing 2 weeks before my period is due before I can take a test. How much more effective are the condoms with the spermicide than without?

It has only been two days since this happened and I think I feel pulling sensations in the area where I would normally have cramps. Am I creating this in my own mind because of all the reading I have done?

I don't know what to do for these two weeks. I am going crazy waiting for time to pass.

A. It's not common for woman to feel a pulling sensation this early-before a missed period, and of course the spermicide is an added protection. I urge you to find a method that is reliable and that you feel comfortable with. Since you are using a barrier method I assume hormone methods are not for you. Try to find a Natural Family Planning method so that you can recognize your body's fertility. Here's a number to the Billings Ovulation Method - 888-637-6371.

Debi Fatherree, RN, has been in nursing for 10 years. All of it has been with a childbirth focus. She has worked postpartum, nursery, NICU and have cross trained some in Labor and Delivery. She started a infant home visit and prenatal educational program in her rural home town and was nominated for Maternal Child nurse of the Year in 1995. She and her husband were transferred with his company 1 1/2 years ago and she started teaching chidlbirth classes and doing breastfeeding classes and consults. She also works as a doula and has her own business, StorkHelp. Debi is mom to three wonderful children - Katie, age 8, Hannah, age 6 and Bobby, age3 (my spit fire.) She and her husband have been married thirteen years, a great accomplishment these days. She currently teaches in the hospital setting and privately through StorkHelp.

Debi will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.